Russian Attack on Eastern Ukraine City Overshadows Blinken’s Visit
KYIV, Sept 6 (Reuters) – A reported Russian attack on the city of Kostiantynivka in eastern Ukraine has left at least 16 people dead, casting a shadow over U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to offer support for Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russia’s invasion forces. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the attack, which targeted a market, shops, and a pharmacy, and stated that a child was among the casualties. Blinken is expected to announce a new package of U.S. assistance worth more than $1 billion during his visit.
Blinken’s visit to Kyiv marks the first time a top U.S. official has visited since the start of Ukraine’s counteroffensive in early June. He held talks with Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and is scheduled to meet with President Zelenskiy. Blinken expressed the United States’ commitment to supporting Ukraine not only in its counteroffensive but also in the long term, ensuring that it has a strong deterrent against Russian aggression.
U.S. media reports have criticized Ukraine’s counteroffensive, suggesting that it has been slow and hindered by poor tactics. Ukrainian officials have expressed their frustration with these criticisms, with Kuleba telling critics to “shut up.” Despite these criticisms, Ukraine has made progress in retaking more than a dozen villages and small settlements. However, the push into Russian-held territory has been impeded by minefields and trenches.
During his visit, Blinken aims to assess the progress of the counteroffensive and determine the battlefield needs of Ukraine. Additionally, discussions will focus on steps that can be taken to enhance Ukraine’s energy security before winter. The United States wants to hear the Ukrainian perspective and understand their intentions for the coming weeks.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded to Blinken’s visit by suggesting that the United States intends to continue funding Ukraine’s military. He stated that U.S. aid would not affect Russia’s “special military operation.” The visit coincided with parliament approving the appointment of Rustem Umerov as defense minister, following the dismissal of Oleksii Reznikov. It is unclear whether Blinken will meet with Umerov.
Blinken’s train ride to Kyiv also included talks with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who was visiting on the same day. Blinken expressed gratitude for Denmark’s donation of F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine and its leadership in a coalition of nations training Ukrainian pilots. Denmark and the Netherlands have announced plans to supply over 60 U.S.-made F-16s to Ukraine, with the first delivery contingent on pilot training.
Zelenskiy expressed his gratitude to Ukraine’s allies for their support, stating, “Thanks to courage. Thanks to unity. Thanks to weapons. Thanks to the support of the world.” The U.S. government has provided over $43 billion in weaponry and military aid to Ukraine since the Russian invasion in February of last year. A new package of security assistance is expected to be announced this week. However, there are concerns about whether the level of U.S. support for Ukraine will be maintained as the 2024 U.S. election campaign intensifies.
In conclusion, Blinken’s visit to Ukraine comes amid a reported Russian attack that claimed the lives of at least 16 people. The United States remains committed to supporting Ukraine in its counteroffensive and is expected to announce a new package of assistance. However, criticisms of Ukraine’s military tactics and concerns about future support raise questions about the ongoing conflict.
Original Story at www.reuters.com – 2023-09-06 13:38:00
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