President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine recently called on Western allies to defend Ukraine in the same way that they supported Israel in the face of a recent Iranian attack. He emphasized the importance of unity among allies and praised the swift action taken to protect Israel from the attack launched by Iran, which included drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles. The U.S., France, the U.K., and Jordan all participated in defending Israel, and Zelensky highlighted the effectiveness of their actions in preventing terrorism and infrastructure damage. He stressed that similar support is needed to defend Ukraine from terrorism, especially since Ukraine is not a NATO member.
During a meeting with top military and security officials, Zelensky discussed the urgency of receiving additional air defense systems to protect settlements near the front line and critical energy infrastructure. He acknowledged the support provided by allies but called for more decisive action in light of the escalating attacks on Ukraine’s critical infrastructure by Russia. The president listened to reports from military intelligence and discussed the current situation on the front line with top military officials. He also engaged with representatives from Ukraine’s energy sector to address recent attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure and to ensure the defense and recovery of power production capacity.
Russia has intensified its missile and drone strikes against Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, leading to the destruction of several thermal power plants across the country. These attacks have resulted in significant damage to Ukraine’s energy production capacity, with reports indicating that up to 80% of the thermal generating capacity of the country’s largest private energy company has been affected. In response to these threats, Ukraine’s nuclear energy agency, Energoatom, has commenced the construction of reactor units 5 and 6 at the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant. These new units will utilize U.S. technology to prevent power outages in the event of Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Zelensky’s call for greater international support for Ukraine comes at a time when the country is facing increased threats from Russia and ongoing attacks on critical infrastructure. The president highlighted the need for decisive action in defending Ukraine from terrorism and emphasized the importance of unity among allies in protecting vulnerable nations. By drawing parallels with the recent defense of Israel, Zelensky sought to underscore the urgency of the situation in Ukraine and the need for swift and effective measures to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and security. The construction of new reactor units at the Khmelnytskyi Nuclear Power Plant represents a strategic move to bolster Ukraine’s energy resilience and protect against future attacks on its power supply.
Overall, Zelensky’s message to Western allies and international partners is a plea for solidarity and support in the face of escalating threats from Russia. The president’s calls for decisive action and increased assistance in protecting Ukraine’s critical infrastructure demonstrate the grave nature of the situation facing the country. By highlighting the successful defense of Israel and the need for a similar response to threats against Ukraine, Zelensky is urging the international community to come together in defense of democracy, peace, and stability. The actions taken by Ukraine to enhance its energy resilience through the construction of new reactor units reflect the country’s determination to strengthen its defenses and protect its citizens from external aggression.
