Kh-101 missile over Poland: Zelenskyy urges pressure on Russia

A Russian Kh-101 cruise missile violated Polish airspace during a massive Russian assault on Ukraine, prompting a strong reaction from Kyiv and its allies. Andriy Sybiha, Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister, confirmed the incursion, emphasizing the urgent need to bolster Ukraine's air defenses.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for greater pressure on Russia, stating that mere sympathy and condemnation are insufficient. He stressed the critical need for air defense missiles, including those for Patriot, NASAMS, and IRIS-T systems, asserting that the lives of Ukrainians depend on allied assistance. Zelenskyy highlighted that strengthening Ukraine's defense also protects Europe.

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Many European countries have spoken out regarding the missile that entered Polish territory... it's not just about sympathy and condemnation, but about air defense missiles and pressure on Russia that can stop this war, attacks, and terror.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed solidarity with Poland and noted that both Poland and NATO activated their air and ground defense systems in response to the violation. He condemned Russia's overnight attacks across Ukraine, which resulted in casualties, and pledged continued NATO support for Ukraine's defense efforts.

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The lives of people depend on whether they (allies) will help Ukraine.

European Union leaders also condemned the incident. European Council President Charles Michel described Russia's aggression as a threat to all of Europe's security and expressed condolences to the victims' families. He affirmed the EU's commitment to increasing support for Ukraine's air defense capabilities.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the attack "unacceptable," noting it was another instance of Russia violating EU airspace during attacks on Ukraine. She addressed Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, acknowledging the resilience of the Polish people and reiterating the EU's comprehensive support for Ukraine's war effort and the development of a robust European security architecture.

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Strengthening Ukraine's defense protects Europe too.

The U.S. Ambassador in Warsaw, Tom Rose, assured Poland of America's firm support and continuous communication with the Polish government. He emphasized that the U.S. takes any violation of an allied nation's territory very seriously.

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Russia's aggression poses a threat to the security of all of Europe.