Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Russia’s use of an experimental ballistic missile as a “clear and severe escalation” in the ongoing war. Zelenskyy called for strong international condemnation of the missile strike, which targeted a military facility in Dnipro, Ukraine. The attack, carried out on November 21, marked the latest in a series of escalating strikes by Russian forces on Ukrainian soil.
Zelenskyy stressed that the missile attack, which followed a speech by Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighted that Russia had no intention of seeking peace. The Ukrainian president emphasized that Russia’s continued aggression only underlined the necessity for further pressure on Moscow, adding, “Russia must be forced into real peace, which can only be achieved through strength.”
NATO’s Stance and Global Reactions
NATO quickly responded to the missile attack, with spokesperson Farah Dakhlallah noting that the missile launch would not change the course of the conflict or deter NATO allies from continuing their support for Ukraine. NATO’s support remains steadfast, despite Putin’s efforts to intimidate Ukraine and its international partners.
Dakhlallah further added, “The launch of this missile will not prevent NATO allies from continuing to support Ukraine.”
Putin had justified the attack by claiming that Russia had the right to strike at Western countries supplying Ukraine with long-range weapons. He also stated that Moscow would retaliate decisively if there was any further escalation.
Putin’s Threats and the Global Context
In his address, Putin framed the missile attack as a response to Western countries’ involvement in the conflict. He referred to the regional conflict in Ukraine as having taken on global dimensions, accusing the West of provocation.
Putin specifically mentioned U.S. plans to develop and deploy intermediate-range missiles, labeling the Oreshnik missile strike a direct countermeasure. He warned that any further escalation by the West would lead to a “decisive and symmetrical response” from Russia.
Ukrainian Parliament Delays Session Amid Security Concerns
In the aftermath of the missile strike, Ukraine’s parliament reportedly delayed a scheduled session due to security concerns. Ukrainian lawmakers were advised to keep their families out of the government district in Kyiv.
The Oreshnik missile, a new type of ballistic missile developed by Russia, was described by Putin as part of a broader strategic effort to counter the West’s growing influence in the conflict.
