Ukraine Reels from Russian Air Strikes as Biden Vows Continued Support
President Joe Biden condemned the latest wave of Russian airstrikes against Ukraine, calling them “outrageous” and underscoring the urgent need for continued support for Ukraine’s defense. “This attack is outrageous and shows again how urgent and important it is to support the Ukrainian people in their defense against Russian aggression,” Biden declared Thursday evening.
“My message to the Ukrainian people is clear: The United States stands with you,” Biden said, reiterating his commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s position in potential peace negotiations by the time the new administration takes over on January 20th. Last week, Biden authorized Kyiv to deploy US-supplied ATACMS missiles to strike targets within Russia.
War of Attrition Sparks Debate
These developments unfold amid an intensifying debate over the future of US aid to Ukraine. While Biden expresses staunch support, incoming president Donald Trump has been openly critical of the billions of dollars in military and financial assistance provided to the Ukrainian government. Trump has stated his desire to end the conflict swiftly, raising concerns among some that a potential decrease in aid could pressure Ukraine into conceding territory currently held by Russia.
Fire Engulfs Kyiv Medical Facility
In Kyiv, a medical facility was engulfed in flames after a Russian drone strike on Friday night. One person sustained injuries, according the city’s military administration chief, Serhiy Popko, who posted details of the incident on Telegram. The fire erupted in Kyiv’s Dniprovskyi district, situated on the eastern bank of the Dnipro River. Popko urged residents to seek shelter as air raid sirens continued to blare across the capital.
Drone Warfare Escalates in Rostov Region
Across the Russian border, Moscow’s air defenses reported shooting down 30 Ukrainian drones in the southern Rostov region.
Yuri Slyusar, the governor of Rostov, confirmed the incident on Telegram, noting that private homes in two villages sustained damage.
What type of military aid does Ukraine need most urgently?
## Ukraine Reels From Air Strikes as Biden Pledges Support
**Anchor:** Welcome back to the program. We’re following the latest developments in Ukraine, where the country is facing a barrage of Russian missile and drone attacks. President Biden has condemned these attacks as “outrageous” and has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense.
For analysis, we’re joined by Dr. Emily Carter, a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Dr. Carter, thank you for being with us.
**Dr. Carter:** It’s my pleasure to be here.
**Anchor:** President Biden’s statement highlights the urgency of the situation. Can you elaborate on the scale and impact of these recent attacks?
**Dr. Carter:** Absolutely. According to a BBC report [[1](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c79z0vje935o)], Russia has launched nearly 1,500 strikes across Ukraine since Sunday evening, targeting roughly half of the country’s regions. While we don’t have a firm number yet, these attacks have resulted in dozens of injuries. It’s a devastating escalation, causing significant damage to infrastructure and civilian areas.
**Anchor:** President Biden stressed the importance of continued support for Ukraine. What kind of support is crucial at this moment?
**Dr. Carter:** This brutal assault underscores the need for sustained military aid, including air defense systems, ammunition, and intelligence sharing. While Ukraine has shown incredible resilience, they are facing an overwhelming assault. Diplomatic pressure on Russia and continued international condemnation of these actions are also essential.
**Anchor:** These attacks come at a critical juncture in the conflict. What do you see as the potential ramifications of this escalation?
**Dr. Carter:** This escalation could further dampen hopes for a negotiated settlement and potentially draw other countries into the conflict. It’s a dangerous development that highlights the aforementioned crucial need for international unity in condemning these actions and providing unwavering support to Ukraine.
**Anchor:** Dr. Carter, thank you for your insights.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me.