In a furious address, Ukraine’s president slammed NATO leaders for refusing to enforce a no-fly zone surrounding the nation.
Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking from Kyiv, said the West’s unwillingness to help has given Russia “a green light” to continue shelling cities and villages. A no-fly zone, according to NATO, will culminate in a conflict with Moscow.
Mr. Zelensky, on the other hand, argues that taking direct action may “provoke Russia’s direct aggression against NATO”
He claimed the debate reflected the “self-hypnosis of those who are weak, under-confident inside” and that Western doubts showed that “not everyone considers the struggle for freedom to be Europe’s number one goal” in a scathing response.
“All of the individuals who will die starting today will die as a result of your actions. Because of your inconsistency, because of your weakness, “Mr Zelensky, enraged, said.
The creation of a no-fly zone, according to NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, could lead to a “full-fledged war in Europe involving many more countries and causing much more human suffering”
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken similarly ruled out imposing a no-fly zone, but told the BBC that he believes Ukraine can win its conflict with Russia.
“I can’t tell you how long this will go on,” said America’s top diplomat. “I have no idea how long it will take. However, the concept that Russia can enslave to its will 45 million people who are fiercely battling for their future and independence without having Russia’s thumb on Ukraine says a lot.”
As the ninth day of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches, Moscow’s military continue to bomb various cities fiercely.
The mayor of Mariupol, in the south-eastern port city, has declared a “blockade” on inhabitants following days of “ruthless” Russian bombardment, which have resulted in power and water being cut off to the city’s 450,00 citizens.