Biden condemns ‘Largest Aerial Assault on Ukraine’ by Russia; Calls Urgent Congressional Action
Ukraine Deploys US-Delivered Air Defense Systems to Intercept Missiles and Drones
The United States has condemned a fresh Russian aerial assault on Ukraine described as the most brutal worst since the onset of the war.
This brutal attack involved the use of drones and missiles, some of which had hypersonic capabilities, striking cities and civilian infrastructure across Ukraine, President Joe Biden said.
Tragically, the strikes hit a maternity hospital, a shopping mall, and residential areas, resulting in the loss of innocent lives and numerous injuries, Biden said. “Strikes reportedly hit a maternity hospital, a shopping mall, and residential areas—killing innocent people and injuring dozens more. It is a stark reminder to the world that, after nearly two years of this devastating war, Putin’s objective remains unchanged. He seeks to obliterate Ukraine and subjugate its people. He must be stopped.”
Ukrainian Defense and US Assistance
In response to this ruthless assault, Ukraine deployed air defense systems provided by the United States and its allies over the past year. These systems played a crucial role in intercepting and destroying many of the incoming missiles and drones, a White House press release said.
(You can check out here the Uranium-based ammo that the US is supplying to Ukraine.)
The assistance from the United States and its allies has been pivotal in saving lives and supporting Ukraine in its defense of its people, freedom, and independence, according to Biden.
Urgent Congressional Action Required
The Biden Administration sought to draw the attention of the United States Congress to the looming crisis in the supply of essential weapons and air defense systems to Ukraine. The entire operation is facing jeopardy in the new year in the absence of a new resolution. Congress must act swiftly and decisively to ensure that Ukraine receives the necessary support to protect its people, Biden said.
Global Implications and NATO's Role
He sought to remind the world that the gravity of the conflict extends far beyond Ukraine's borders. It directly impacts the entire NATO Alliance, the security of Europe, and the future of the Transatlantic relationship. Notably, Putin's actions have not only targeted Ukraine but have also posed threats to some NATO Allies.
Biden said that allowing dictators and autocrats to exert unchecked influence in Europe increases the risk of direct U.S. involvement, with worldwide consequences.
International Coalition and the Call for Solidarity
Recognizing the magnitude of the situation, the United States has rallied a coalition comprising more than 50 countries to support Ukraine's defense, according to the press release. The collective responsibility to defend freedom and democracy underscores the imperative of not letting down our allies and partners, especially Ukraine. Those who fail to heed the call for freedom will face harsh judgment from history. “We cannot let our allies and partners down. We cannot let Ukraine down. History will judge harshly those who fail to answer freedom’s call,” Biden added.
Read the whole press release here.
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