UN Security Council to Convene Over Ominous Russian Attacks on Ukraine
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is set to meet in an emergency session on Monday following the confirmed use of a nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile by Russia against Ukraine, escalating tensions between the nations and prompting an outcry from international leaders. This unprecedented event has been deemed an 'unacceptable escalation' by high-ranking officials including Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, and Keir Starmer.
Background
Since 2014, Russia's aggression against Ukraine has been a cause for international concern. The annexation of the Crimean Peninsula marked the beginning of the conflict, which has recently escalated with Russia's strikes on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, resulting in at least four deaths and leaving half of the residential buildings in Kiev without heating.
The Oreshnik Incident
Between Thursday and Friday night, Russia launched an Oreshnik missile attack on Ukraine, causing significant damage. Reports suggest the missile used is nuclear-capable, marking a terrifying escalation of the conflict. Ukraine's ambassador to the UN denounced Russia's actions as reaching a terrifying level of war crimes.
International Response
In response to these events, global leaders have condemned the attacks and offered support to Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron described the attacks as an unacceptable escalation,
and UK Defense Secretary John Healey announced a £200 million allocation to prepare British troops for deployment in Ukraine, stating, a secure Ukraine means a secure U.K.
In a major move, Paris may deploy up to 6,000 soldiers post-war, and London has committed 230 million for the multilateral force. However, Russia has expressed opposition to any Western military contingent in Ukraine.
In a show of solidarity, Moldovan Foreign Minister Mihail Popșoi condemned Russia's use of the Oreshnik ballistic missile and reaffirmed Chisinau's support for a just peace for Ukraine.
Emergency UNSC Meeting
The UNSC emergency meeting, scheduled for Monday, was requested by Ukraine and supported by six countries, excluding France. The council will discuss the situation in Ukraine in the wake of Russia's massive strikes and the use of the nuclear-capable missile.
Current Status
As of now, Kiev remains without water and heating amidst the winter season. The city is also grappling with an emergency electrical issue. Meanwhile, Iraq is setting up a special government commission to prevent the recruitment of Iraqi youth to fight in Russia’s war against Ukraine.
Pope Leo XIV has called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, expressing the Holy See's readiness to support any initiative that promotes peace.
The use of the Oreshnik missile is perceived by Kiev and its allies as a significant escalation and a direct threat to European security. The outcomes of the UNSC meeting and further international responses to this crisis are eagerly awaited.