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NATO will not intercept missiles and drones over Ukraine

04.10.2024 11:37
According to the Pentagon, assisting in intercepting Russian missiles from the territory of Romania or Poland would mean the Western countries' involvement in the war. During a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the President of Ukraine attempted to persuade allies on this matter.
Kyiv, Ukraine, October 3, 2024. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (L) and President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky (R) during a press conference.
Kyiv, Ukraine, October 3, 2024. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte (L) and President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky (R) during a press conference.PAP/Viktor Kovalchuk

The Pentagon confirms that NATO countries do not intend to intercept missiles and drones over Ukrainian territory, as such actions risk provoking war with Russia.

“We see that Ukraine is effectively defending itself against Russian attacks on its cities, population, and infrastructure. We will continue to provide it with the necessary support,” stated Pentagon representative Sabrina Singh, who serves as the deputy spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Defense.

In her view, assistance from allies in intercepting hostile drones over Israel and similar actions in Ukraine represent “two very different landscapes and battlefields.”

Ukraine has repeatedly called on neighboring countries for help in intercepting Russian missiles and drones entering its airspace and approaching NATO's western borders.

At a press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Thursday, President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed that Kyiv will keep urging its allies to recognize the importance of intercepting Russian drones and missiles.

He highlighted that timely decisions are crucial before winter arrives. In response, Mark Rutte noted that these decisions ultimately rest with the governments of individual NATO member states.

Source: IAR/PAP/Pentagon/defense.gov/X/@EuromaidanPress/@ZelenskyyUa

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