Ukraine will respond forcefully to a Russian missile strike that claimed at least 29 lives and damaged a children’s hospital in Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy declared during his visit to Warsaw. The Ukrainian leader, who signed a security pact with Poland, made this statement as world leaders prepare for the upcoming NATO summit in Washington.
Zelenskiy called on Ukraine’s allies to deliver a robust response to Monday’s attack, emphasizing the need for increased resilience and support. He expressed Ukraine’s desire to use partner-supplied weapons to target Russian launch sites, seeking concrete steps from Western allies to bolster air defenses and protect the country’s energy sector.
The Ukrainian President initiated an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council in response to the Russian attack. Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk discussed potential energy assistance for Ukraine before winter, as Russia continues to target Ukrainian energy infrastructure.
Tusk also expressed Poland’s openness to the idea of intercepting Russian missiles over Ukrainian soil if they were headed for NATO territory, emphasizing the need for clear cooperation within the alliance for such actions.
The security agreement signed with Poland marks the 21st such pact Kyiv has established with countries including the United States, Britain, France, and Germany. This development underscores the growing international support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against Russian aggression.
As the NATO summit approaches, all eyes will be on the alliance’s response to the escalating situation and its plans to further support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.
Reuters