President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine strongly condemned Hamas for its surprise attack on Israel, comparing it to Russia’s invasion of his country. He also criticized Iran for supporting both Hamas and Moscow. Speaking to NATO, this is the second speech Mr. Zelensky has delivered in support of Israel since the incursion. The Ukrainian government’s support for Israel was further demonstrated by the illumination of electronic billboards in Kyiv with the Israeli flag.
Mr. Zelensky stated that Hamas and Moscow were both “evil,” with the only difference being that one is a terrorist organization attacking Israel while the other is a terrorist state attacking Ukraine. He emphasized the need for the world to unite against terrorism and condemn acts of violence against innocent civilians.
In his impassioned speech to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, Mr. Zelensky drew parallels between the killing of civilians in Israel and the atrocities committed during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He also called out Iran for selling exploding drones to Moscow and expressing support for Hamas.
The ongoing war in Israel coincides with Ukraine’s counteroffensive, which aims to gain decisive progress. Ukraine is seeking support from its NATO allies, as some have shown signs of wavering. Visible success on the battlefield would strengthen Ukraine’s international support network.
President Biden expressed confidence that Congress would approve military and humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, despite opposition from some Republicans. His reassurance came after the House passed a spending bill without additional funds for Kyiv.
In Slovakia, voters elected a party led by Robert Fico, a former prime minister known for his pro-Russian stance. This comes as Russian forces continue their daily attacks on Ukraine, targeting its energy infrastructure and launching assaults on multiple regions.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense reported that Russian troops fired on eight regions, resulting in casualties. One woman was killed in Kharkiv, and in Kherson, one person died and 18 others, including two children, were wounded in fierce attacks.