Western unity condemns Russian brutality, reinforcing Israel’s warning that peace requires strength, not concessions.
Global leaders sharply condemned Russia’s latest mass attack on Kyiv, underscoring that lasting peace in Ukraine remains impossible without genuine willingness from Moscow. The overnight assault—one of the most intense in months—saw Russia unleash roughly 500 drones and 40 missiles, killing at least one civilian, injuring 27 others, and plunging large swathes of the capital into darkness.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the barrage damaged approximately 2,600 residential buildings and more than 300 schools, preschools, and social-service facilities. Russia claimed the strikes targeted infrastructure “used in the interests of the Ukrainian armed forces,” a justification frequently employed by aggressors to mask indiscriminate attacks on civilian life.
French President Emmanuel Macron said the strikes demonstrated that Moscow is not seeking to end the war it started. Speaking after a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Macron contrasted Ukraine’s stated willingness for a durable peace with Russia’s determination to prolong the conflict.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney echoed the condemnation, calling the attack “barbarism” and stressing that peace requires “a willing Russia.” Meeting Zelensky, Carney announced fresh Canadian economic assistance worth CAN$2.5 billion (US$1.82 billion), aimed at stabilizing Ukraine’s economy and accelerating post-war reconstruction.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz affirmed unified backing from European leaders and Canada, noting close coordination with the United States ahead of renewed diplomatic engagement. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s commitment to a “just and lasting peace” that preserves Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
For Israel, the lessons are unmistakable. As Kyiv faces missiles while its adversary speaks of negotiations, the pattern mirrors threats Israel confronts from hostile regimes and proxies: diplomacy without deterrence invites escalation. The Western response to Russia’s brutality reinforces Israel’s long-held position—peace is secured through strength, unity, and accountability, not through rewarding aggression.
