On Sunday, November 17, 2024, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen strongly condemned Russia’s “horrific” attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which resulted in over ten fatalities. Speaking to Brazil’s GloboNews ahead of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, she pledged unwavering EU support for Ukraine, reiterating, “We will stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes.”
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed her sentiments from Buenos Aires, emphasizing the need to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. “Ukraine needs more air defense immediately,” stated Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, highlighting this priority ahead of an EU Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Brussels.
The attacks, described as some of the most severe since the war’s onset, targeted Ukraine’s fragile energy grid, causing extensive damage just as winter approaches. Reports indicate that Russian forces aimed to terrorize civilians across Ukraine, with missile and drone strikes specifically targeting critical energy and nuclear infrastructure.
President Macron criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting, “Putin is not ready for peace or negotiations. His intent is clear—to escalate the war.” He further emphasized the urgency for Ukraine’s defense against such aggression.
The strikes occurred amidst Ukraine’s concerns over potentially waning U.S. support, especially with Donald Trump’s anticipated return to the White House in January 2025. In the meantime, current President Joe Biden has eased restrictions on Ukraine’s use of U.S. weapons, allowing deeper strikes into Russian territory.
The assault also followed a contentious call between German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and President Putin, sparking criticism from Kyiv, which labeled even minimal contact with Russia as dangerous.
As the situation intensifies, global leaders continue to denounce Russia’s actions, while affirming their commitment to aiding Ukraine’s resilience against further aggression.
Source: ANA-MPA
