Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council meeting requested by Ukraine, U.S. Deputy Ambassador Tammy Bruce said Russia had fired an Oreshnik hypersonic missile last Thursday during a massive overnight attack involving hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles.
“At a moment of tremendous potential, due only to President Trump's unparalleled commitment to peace around the world, both sides should be seeking ways to de-escalate,” Bruce said. “Yet Russia's action risks expanding and intensifying the war.”
The strike killed four and injured 25, just days after Ukraine and its allies reported progress toward security guarantees tied to a potential U.S.-led peace deal. It also followed the U.S. seizure of a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic.
Despite months of negotiations, Moscow has shown no sign of softening its demands. Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia blamed Kyiv, saying Moscow would press on militarily until Ukraine accepts “realistic” terms.
Ukraine’s UN envoy Andriy Melnyk pushed back, calling Russia’s image of strength “an illusion.” He argued that Russia’s economy was faltering and oil revenue shrinking.
Poland’s ambassador, Krzysztof Szczerski, said the attack proved Russia’s intent to prolong civilian suffering during winter and deter international support for Ukraine.
“We must not reduce our assistance,” Szczerski said. “On the contrary, continued military and non-military aid is vital to strengthen Ukraine’s negotiating position and ensure Russia’s goals are not achieved.”
He urged states to halt Russian oil imports and backed tighter sanctions on Moscow.
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Source: PAP, IAR, Euronews