Written by Lisa Nyambura
President Joe Biden has strongly denounced a series of Russian missile strikes in Ukraine, labeling them a “horrific reminder of Russia’s brutality.” The attacks, which left at least 38 dead and 190 injured, including victims at a children’s hospital in Kyiv, have drawn international condemnation and sparked renewed calls for action.
Despite Russia’s denial of targeting the hospital, the UN’s monitoring mission and independent analysts have pointed to Moscow as the likely culprit. Biden’s condemnation comes ahead of a crucial NATO summit in Washington, where leaders from 32 member states and partner countries will convene to discuss responses to Russian aggression.
At the summit, Biden pledged to announce enhanced measures to bolster Ukraine’s air defences, signalling robust support amidst escalating tensions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s presence at the summit shows the urgency and gravity of the situation, as NATO reassesses its defence and deterrence strategies in light of ongoing hostilities.
While NATO’s outgoing Secretary General, Jens Stoltenberg, has acknowledged Ukraine’s inevitable membership in the future, he emphasised it would occur only after the conflict with Russia concludes. Russia vehemently opposes Ukraine’s NATO accession, citing concerns over proximity to its borders.
“We will be announcing new measures to strengthen Ukraine’s air defences to help protect their cities and civilians from Russian strikes,” Mr Biden said.
“I will be meeting with President Zelenskyy to make clear our support for Ukraine is unshakeable.”
The United Nations Security Council has also convened at Ukraine’s request, amidst global concern over the humanitarian and security implications of Russia’s military actions. Kyiv has declared July 9th a day of mourning in response to the devastating attacks, as international pressure mounts for a unified response against Russian aggression.
