Warsaw: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed that the deployment of the Russian Oreshnik missile system in Belarus poses a significant threat to several European countries. Speaking at a joint press conference with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine has identified the missile's location and is sharing this information with its international partners.
According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy stressed the importance of alerting European and American allies about the potential danger the missile system represents, particularly to countries like Poland. He highlighted the challenges of countering the Oreshnik, noting its previous use in Ukraine and the difficulties in intercepting it with drones. Zelenskyy called for sanctions against companies involved in supplying components for the missile through indirect channels.
The remarks were made following Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's confirmation that the Oreshnik missile system is now operational in Belarus. The missile, first deployed by Russia in November 2024, was previously used to target a facility in Dnipro, Ukraine, in retaliation against Ukrainian attacks using Western-supplied long-range weaponry.
In a broader context, Zelenskyy interpreted the European Union's approval of a £90 billion ($105 billion) loan package to Ukraine as a direct message to Russia about the futility of continuing the war. He asserted that the financial backing would bolster Ukraine's defense efforts and maintain national stability. Zelenskyy also expressed optimism about strengthening ties with Poland and offered Ukraine's expertise in drone defense.
Polish President Nawrocki described Zelenskyy's visit as beneficial for both nations but detrimental to Russia, emphasizing the unity among Warsaw, Kyiv, and other regional countries in security cooperation. Nawrocki conveyed Polish sentiments regarding the appreciation of aid to Ukraine and discussed potential military collaborations, including the transfer of MiG-29 fighter jets and anti-drone systems. He advocated for sanctions on Russia and highlighted the necessity of US President Donald Trump's involvement to secure peace in Ukraine.