Zelenskyy Appeals for European Solidarity
After Russia launched one of its largest missile and drone attacks in recent weeks, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday called for increased European cooperation in defending Ukraine. Drawing parallels with the Middle East, where Western nations and Arab partners united to support Israel against an Iranian attack in April, Zelenskyy urged similar unity in Europe. In a post on X, he emphasized that if such collaboration can work in the Middle East, it should be effective in Europe as well.
Currently, across the country, efforts are underway to eliminate the consequences of the Russian strike. This was one of the largest attacks – a combined strike, involving over a hundred missiles of various types and around a hundred “Shaheds.” Like most Russian strikes before,… pic.twitter.com/0qNTGR98rR
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) August 26, 2024
Russia’s Massive Attack on Ukraine
Zelenskyy revealed that Russia had attacked Ukraine with over 200 drones and missiles on the night between Sunday and Monday, making it one of the largest strikes in recent times. The attack included more than 100 missiles of various types and around 100 Shahed drones, which are Iranian-made suicide drones frequently used by Russia in the ongoing conflict. The strikes reportedly targeted critical infrastructure, including power stations and a dam.
Call for European Air Defense Unity
Zelenskyy reiterated the need for European nations to join forces in shooting down Russian missiles and drones. He emphasized that Europe’s collective air defense efforts could save lives, much like the cooperation seen in the Middle East. However, despite Zelenskyy’s appeal, there is little indication that this will lead to an immediate policy shift, as the United States and European countries have been clear about not directly joining the war with Russia. They continue to provide Ukraine with weapons, ammunition, intelligence, training, and military advice.
Zelenskyy Pushes for Expanded Strike Capabilities
Zelenskyy also repeated his call for permission to strike targets inside Russia, arguing that Ukraine should not be limited in its long-range capabilities when Russia faces no such restrictions. He urged his Western partners, including the United States, Britain, and France, to take decisive action to help Ukraine counter Russia’s ongoing terror, highlighting the need for support in stopping Russian missile and drone attacks.
