“US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, has pledged to enhance support for Ukraine, in light of President-elect Donald Trump’s forthcoming inauguration, coupled with Russia’s recent missile and drone assault on Kyiv – the first since August. This has led to residents seeking refuge in bomb shelters.
Blinken, during his meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the NATO headquarters in Brussels on November 13, emphasized the Biden administration’s commitment to reinforce their support for Ukraine and bolster NATO. Joe Biden, whose term ends on January 20, has promised to ensure that the entirety of available funds is utilized towards this cause before his departure.
Blinken further stressed the importance of ensuring Ukraine’s ability to effectively combat or negotiate peace from a position of strength in 2025. He underscored the need for NATO countries to focus on providing Ukraine with the necessary funds, munitions, and forces.
Trump, on the other hand, has expressed skepticism about Washington’s military support for Kyiv and pledged to swiftly terminate the war instigated by Russia’s unsolicited invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However, his lack of a clear plan has sparked concerns that he may pressurize Ukraine into accepting Moscow’s peace terms.
Addressing the involvement of North Korean troops in the Ukraine war, Blinken affirmed that this would receive a robust response. The Pentagon reports that over 10,000 North Korean troops are involved in combat in Russia’s Kursk border region.
Responding to queries about whether the US would permit Ukraine to use US-supplied modern weapons to penetrate deeper into Russia, Blinken evaded a direct response, stating the US would continue to “adapt and adjust” to cater to Ukraine’s needs.
In a statement from the State Department, Sybiha confirmed discussions with Blinken regarding the protection of critical infrastructure. He emphasized the urgency of protecting Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, which is being targeted daily by Russian bombings.
On November 13, Ukraine was put under an air-raid alert following Moscow’s missile and drone attack on Kyiv. Kyiv Mayor, Vitali Klitschko, urged residents to seek shelter as explosions rattled the city.
The Ukrainian Air Force successfully downed two cruise missiles, two ballistic missiles, and 37 drones over Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions. They also managed to jam the navigation systems of 47 other drones, causing them to lose their way.
Russia’s attacks on Ukraine have escalated recently, leading to increased damage to the country’s civilian and energy infrastructure, particularly as the colder season approaches.”
