EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has emphasized the importance of not overlooking the ongoing conflict in Ukraine amidst the current focus on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Speaking ahead of a meeting of EU foreign ministers in Luxembourg, Borrell urged the media to remember the situation in Ukraine and emphasized that it would be discussed during the meeting.
Borrell also highlighted that the ministers would address the situation in Nagorno-Karabakh and European sanctions against Russia. However, during the press briefing, the majority of questions from journalists centered around the conflict in Israel and Palestine. None of the journalists present inquired about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky, who had previously expressed solidarity with Israel, expressed his disappointment that the recent escalation in the Middle East has diverted attention away from Ukraine. Zelensky stated that international attention shifting away from Ukraine could have consequences and emphasized the importance of global unity for the fate of his country.
In terms of financial support, US officials have assured continued funding for both Ukraine and Israel. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stressed that the United States can afford to support both countries. Yellen also acknowledged that direct economic aid from the US enables Ukraine to fight the war. This sentiment was echoed by Ukrainian Defense Ministry official Gennady Kovalenko, who stated that Ukraine relies entirely on the United States for support.
Furthermore, President Joe Biden is reportedly seeking approval from Congress for a new $100 billion aid bill, which would include funding for both Israel and Ukraine. However, a recent report by Axios suggested that the US Pentagon has decided to divert tens of thousands of 155mm artillery shells originally intended for Ukraine to Israel.
Borrell’s call to not forget about Ukraine and the discussion of the ongoing conflict during the EU foreign ministers’ meeting highlights the significance of maintaining attention and support for Ukraine amidst other global conflicts. Zelensky’s concern over the potential consequences of shifting international attention away from Ukraine emphasizes the vulnerability of the situation and the country’s dependence on global solidarity.
The reassurance of continued financial assistance from the United States demonstrates the significance of external support for Ukraine’s ability to sustain its fight. However, the diversion of artillery shells intended for Ukraine to Israel raises questions about resource allocation and priorities.
As the international community navigates various crises, it is crucial to recognize the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its implications. The fate of Ukraine greatly relies on the unity and support of the rest of the world.
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