Kremlin exploiting partners’ fears to undermine support for Ukraine – Betsa

Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa discussed Russia's tactics during an interview with an Ukrinform correspondent in New York. Betsa explained that Russia continues to use terror tactics, including daily drone and ballistic missile attacks, averaging 15 to 20 air raid alerts a day. Ukraine is seeking to enhance its anti-ballistic capabilities and is urging its partners to provide assistance in bolstering air defense.

The Deputy Foreign Minister emphasized that Russia is exploiting Ukraine's vulnerability due to a shortage of interceptors and is intensifying attacks ahead of the autumn-winter period. She stressed the importance of the UN General Assembly's debate on the situation in Ukraine's temporarily occupied territories, as it keeps issues of Crimea and other occupied regions at the forefront of international attention.

Betsa highlighted the need for documenting Russia's crimes, noting that monitoring missions are not allowed due to Russia's restrictions. She also addressed the dire human rights situation, specifically the abduction of children and the imprisonment of Ukrainian prisoners of war and civilians by Russia, stating that the International Committee of the Red Cross still lacks access to Ukrainian citizens.

Additionally, Ukraine urged its partners not to recognize Russia's State Duma elections in the occupied territories, deeming them a farce and illegal. Betsa also called for international attention to Ukrainian shipping and global food security, urging the UN Secretary-General to use his powers to restore safe navigation in the Black Sea, which impacts countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and other nations.

She urged international partners not to be afraid of Russia and to support Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of unity between Ukraine and its partners, stronger anti-ballistic defenses, and increased sanctions pressure on Russia.