(ReclaimingAmerica.net) – The obliteration of a key thermal power plant in Kyiv by Russia occurred because Ukraine was depleted of missiles for its defense, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has declared, warning that without additional US support Moscow would triumph in the war.
Zelensky conveyed to PBS NewsHour the devastation of the Trypilska thermal power facility on April 11, which resulted in the shutdown of Centrenergo’s energy production, a pivotal company for the capital’s power supply, attributing the catastrophe to the nation’s missile shortage.
“Eleven missiles were aimed at it. We intercepted the first seven,” he revealed in the interview published on Tuesday.
He explained that the subsequent four missiles resulted in the facility’s destruction.
“Why? We exhausted our entire missile inventory,” Zelensky pondered.
His statements came in the wake of House Speaker Mike Johnson advancing Ukrainian assistance legislation in Congress this week after a period of deadlock, partly due to resistance from certain conservative members.
This aid package for Ukraine is among four proposed measures, with the others endorsing support for Taiwan, bolstering US national security objectives, and providing assistance to Israel following Iran’s drone and missile attacks.
In light of Iran’s recent offensive on Israel, Zelensky remarked, “Israel was not self-defending.”
He stressed that the US and its allies’ support for Israel in this context should similarly be extended to Ukraine.
The global effort to shield Israel from Iranian aggression challenges the viewpoint of those opposing further aid to Ukraine, fearing it might implicate the US-led NATO alliance in the conflict directly.
“Is Israel a NATO member?” Zelensky asked.
Addressing the potential repercussions of Congress withholding additional support, Zelensky candidly stated, “Without this aid, our victory chances are null.”
“Our current artillery shell ratio stands at 1-10. Is it feasible for us to maintain our position? Absolutely not. With such disparity, we’re being forced to retreat daily,” he expanded.
“What decision will the US Congress arrive at? I am hopeful they heed our pleas and soon, within days or weeks — and certainly not any longer — opt for a favorable resolution,” the Ukrainian leader added.
His remarks come amid significant territorial advancements by Russia in eastern Ukraine and pressing appeals for US intervention from humanitarian organizations.
Jed Meline, the Policy and Advocacy Director at Project Hope, highlighted a surge in attacks against Ukrainian civilians, with March witnessing 604 civilian casualties, including 57 children.
Copyright 2024, ReclaimingAmerica.net
