US President Joe Biden has strongly condemned the recent Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine, describing the attacks as “outrageous” and a deliberate attempt to undermine the country’s stability during the harsh winter months. Speaking in a statement on Wednesday, Biden reaffirmed the United States’ unwavering support for Ukraine and called on the international community to stand united against Russian aggression.
Condemnation of Russian attacks
The strikes, which targeted critical energy infrastructure across Ukraine, occurred during the Christmas period, intensifying their impact on civilians. Biden decried the timing and purpose of the attacks, accusing Russia of aiming to leave Ukrainians without heat and electricity during the coldest months of the year.
“In the early hours of Christmas, Russia launched waves of missiles and drones against Ukrainian cities and critical energy infrastructure,” Biden said. “The purpose of this outrageous attack was to cut off the Ukrainian people’s access to heat and electricity during winter and jeopardise the safety of its grid.”
Commitment to Ukraine’s defence
Biden highlighted the US’s ongoing efforts to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities, including the provision of air defence missiles and other military aid. “In recent months, the United States has provided Ukraine with hundreds of air defence missiles, and more are on the way,” he stated.
He also revealed that the US Department of Defence has been directed to accelerate weapons deliveries, ensuring Ukraine remains equipped to counter Russian aggression. “The United States will continue to work tirelessly to strengthen Ukraine’s position in its defence against Russian forces,” Biden added.
International call for unity
Biden urged the global community to stand in solidarity with Ukraine, emphasising the moral imperative of supporting the nation’s right to peace and security. “The Ukrainian people deserve to live in peace and safety, and the United States and the international community must continue to stand with Ukraine until it triumphs over Russia’s aggression,” he said.
The President’s statement underscores the broader geopolitical stakes of the conflict, positioning Ukraine as a pivotal frontline in the defence of democratic values against authoritarian aggression.
Ukrainian president’s response
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced Russia’s attacks, labelling them as “inhumane” and an assault on the spirit of the festive season. Zelenskyy highlighted the damage inflicted on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and the ongoing humanitarian toll of the war.
The strikes, which utilised both missiles and drones, targeted several key regions across Ukraine, further destabilising the country’s already strained energy network.
Casualties and regional impact
Reports from Al Jazeera detailed the immediate impact of the strikes, which resulted in casualties and significant damage to Ukraine’s infrastructure:
- Southern Ukraine: One person was killed, and three were injured in attacks that damaged energy facilities, according to the governor of Kherson.
- Northeastern Ukraine: In Kharkiv, six individuals were injured in a missile strike, with Governor Oleh Syniehubov confirming that ballistic missiles were used in the assault.
- Central Ukraine: In Dnipropetrovsk, Governor Serhiy Lysak reported that Russian forces specifically targeted a power grid.
These targeted strikes are seen as part of Russia’s broader strategy to erode Ukraine’s resilience by crippling essential services and demoralising its population.
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Escalation of the conflict
The latest attacks mark a continuation of Russia’s sustained campaign against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which has intensified since the autumn. Experts suggest that Moscow’s strategy is designed to pressure Kyiv into concessions by creating a humanitarian crisis and exhausting international support.
However, Ukraine’s resilience and the strong backing from Western allies, including the United States, have thus far thwarted these objectives.
Looking ahead
As the conflict approaches another winter, the challenges for Ukraine remain immense. The nation’s ability to endure will depend heavily on continued international support, particularly in terms of military aid and the restoration of critical infrastructure.
President Biden’s strong condemnation and commitment to enhanced military assistance signal the US’s determination to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. However, the international community faces an ongoing challenge in maintaining unity and resolve as the war persists.
For the Ukrainian people, Biden’s statement serves as a reaffirmation of global solidarity, offering hope amid the hardships of an increasingly brutal conflict.
