Photo : Jörg Blank/dpa/picture alliance
Photo : Jörg Blank/dpa/picture alliance
By Advik S Mohan and Padmashree Anandhan
WAR ON THE GROUND
On 04 November, Ukrinform reported on Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, meeting with the Staff of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. The meeting involved a review of recent developments on the frontline in the Ukraine war with the Pokrovsk, Toretsk, Kupyansk, and Kurakhove directions given priority. Additionally, a report of the ongoing Ukrainian incursion into the Kursk Oblast of Russia was provided. Zelenskyy also informed partner and artillery supplies to the frontline improved, under support packages. The increased domestic production of unmanned systems was also mentioned. Zelenskyy informed approved delivery plans of Ukrainian-made drones for the Armed Forces of Ukraine were being implemented.
On 04 November, Ukrinform reported on Zelenskyy’s discussion with Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau. Zelenskyy expressed his gratitude towards Trudeau for the successful hosting of the thematic conference on the point of the Peace Formula of Ukraine relating to the release of prisoners and deported persons. Zelenskyy further informed he discussed the organization of the Second Peace Summit with Trudeau and the possible involvement of countries from the Global South. Additionally, the Ukrainian President stated Canada would send the first NASAMS air defence system to Ukraine by the end of the year. Other topics discussed by Zelenskyy and Trudeau during their meeting included continued defence support for Ukraine, the involvement of North Korea in the war and continuing cooperation amidst the upcoming G7 presidency of Canada.
THE MOSCOW VIEW
Claims by Russia
On 04 November, RT reported that the Government of the Russian Federation carried out airstrikes on targets like energy infrastructure in Ukraine. The Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation informed the Russian Armed Forces had targeted energy facilities and an oil refinery used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Additionally, the Ministry stated that Russia targeted UAV workshops and storage sites for unmanned boats, and Russian forces used tactical aviation, drones, missiles and artillery in strikes. It was also informed that Russian air defence systems shot down launch rocket systems, guided aerial bombs and UAVs launched by Ukraine.
THE WEST VIEW
Responses from the US and Europe
On 04 November, Federal Foreign Office reported on Germany’s Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs Annalena Baerbock visit to Ukraine. Baerbock stated Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia was waging a war of attrition against Ukraine. She announced EUR 200 million to aid Ukraine for the third winter against Russia. The fund is aimed to strengthen infrastructure, continue energy supplies and humanitarian aid such as insulation, winter clothing, blankets and cash. According to Baerbock, the air strikes on the heat and power plants and water infrastructure of Ukraine intended to break the country. However, Baerbock praised the citizens of Ukraine for remaining resilient despite the pressure, with their rebuilding of schools, hospitals, and energy infrastructure. The Foreign Minister also informed her visit would be an opportunity to send a message to the citizens that Europe continued to support them, despite Russian attempts at division. It was also aimed to identify specific areas for the international community to support Ukraine.
On 04 November, an article in The Korea Times informed Josep Borrell, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy had stated Ukraine needed to be supported in all aspects. Borrell expressed concern over the deployment of North Korean troops to Ukraine in support of Russia. Additionally, Borrell stated that the escalating military cooperation between North Korea and Russia showed the Russian war in Ukraine posed a threat to global security. Borrell also voiced his interest in coordinating efforts between the EU and the Government of South Korea towards peace in Ukraine. He also informed a Strategic Dialogue between the EU and South Korea would be launched, and the two sides would sign a security and defence partnership.
References
“Frontline developments, Kursk raid, drone production: Zelensky Supreme CinC Staff meeting,” Ukrinform, 04 November 2024
“Canada sends NASAMS air defense system to Ukraine- Zelensky,” Ukrinform, 04 November 2024
“Russia hits military and energy facilities in Ukraine- MOD,” RT, 04 November 2024
“Nearly 1000 days of war and terror, but also nearly 1000 days of courage and humanity- Foreign Minister Baerbock is again visiting Ukraine,” Federal Foreign Office of Germany, 04 November 2024
“Ukraine updates: Germany's Baerbock pledges more aid in Kyiv,” Deutsche Welle, 04 November 2024
“EU foreign policy chief urges support for Ukraine in ‘all aspects’ amid NK troop concerns,” The Korea Times, 04 November 2024