Photo : Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP
Photo : Ukrainian Presidential Press Office via AP
War in Ukraine: Day 635
By Padmashree Anandhan
War on Ground
On 20 November, Ukraine’s Armed Forces General Staff reported on multiple attacks by Russia along the 621-mile eastern Ukraine. According to the UAF, 46 combat clashes with major attacks recorded in Maryinka, and Avdiivka.
On 20 November, Ukraine Cabinet chief disclosed the dismissal of the head and deputy of the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine (SSSCIP). The move comes as both were accused of embezzlement which has become frequent since Ukraine’s attempting for EU membership.
The Moscow View
Claims by Russia
On 20 November, Russia’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov issued a statement expressing Russia’s “regret” over Finland’s border closure. Peskov said that it create “deep regret” due to the long-standing relations with Finland. He added: “And of course, we regret that these relations were replaced by such an exclusively Russophobic position, which the leaders of this country began to espouse.” The response comes as Finland announced closing four out of nine crossing points in the eastern border with Russia. On the same Russia’s foreign ministry lodged “a formal protest” with Finland’s ambassador in Moscow. According to the ministry, Finland’s decision was rushed and violated the rights and interest of those inside the border.
The West View
Responses from the US and Europe
On 20 November, Lloyd Austin, US Secretary of Defence visited Kyiv to showcase US stance in continuing its support to Ukraine. He announced USD 100 million military aid to Ukraine. The visit comes as the US and Ukraine will meet in December for a military industry conference, where Ukraine expects to fasten efforts to boost its weapon production.
On 20 November, UK’s Ministry of Defence reported that close to 11,000 children were observed to be detained in the “re-education camps” in Russia. It stated that children between aged from four months were found to be deported to camps across Russia for “pro-Russia patriotic and military related education.”
References
“Ukraine updates: US defense chief on surprise visit to Kyiv,” Deutsche Welle, 20 November 2023
“US Defence Secretary Austin makes unannounced visit to Kyiv, pledging ongoing support for Ukraine,” Euronews, 20 November 2023
“Work starts at Salla border crossing with Russia to erect barriers — Finnish Border Guard,” TASS, 20 November 2023
“Ukraine sacks top cybersecurity officials in corruption probe involving software purchases,” ABC News, 21 November 2023
“Russia Lodges Protest to Finnish Ambassador Over Closure of Border Checkpoints: Russian FM,” Sputnik, 21 November 2023