NATO-Ukraine Council Convenes Following Russian Missile Attack on Dnipro
Following a new missile attack on Ukraine by Russia, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for a NATO-Ukraine Council meeting. This escalation is viewed as a dangerous progression of the ongoing conflict between the two countries. The key focus of the discussions scheduled for next week will be Russia’s use of an experimental medium-range ballistic missile against the Ukrainian city of Dnipro.
Russian President’s Statement
Russian President, Vladimir Putin, confirmed that six non-nuclear warheads struck Dnipro, an industrial city in Eastern Ukraine. Putin warned of further attacks using the new weapon, the Oreșnik, which flies at hypersonic speed and is reportedly uninterceptible. He stated that the usage of this weapon is a response to the decision by the US and Western allies to permit Kiev to use long-range missiles against Russian territory.
NATO-Ukraine Council
The NATO-Ukraine Council was first established last year during the Vilnius summit. The council was formed to facilitate discussions during crisis situations and to foster closer cooperation until Ukraine fulfills the conditions for NATO membership. These conditions include the cessation of the large-scale Russian invasion and internal reforms within Ukraine. The upcoming discussions in Brussels were organized following a request from Kiev and will be held at the ambassadorial level.
