The head of NATO has condemned a recent Russian drone attack on a train near Ukraine’s border with Poland, asserting that it will not deter Western support for Kyiv. Mark Rutte emphasized that the strike demonstrated Vladimir Putin’s desperation, highlighting his mistaken belief that such actions could undermine the unity and resolve of Ukraine’s allies. Rutte assured that the response would be an increase in support for Ukraine.

European leaders have joined in condemning the attack, which targeted a passenger train shortly after a convoy of high-level diplomats and former leaders, including former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, had passed through. Ukrainian Railways suggested that the earlier train, carrying Johnson, might have been the intended target.

UK Prime Minister’s spokesperson, Andy Burnham, echoed Rutte’s sentiments, labeling the attack as a futile attempt by Russia to weaken support for Ukraine. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot described the attack’s goal as an effort to intimidate, discourage, and divide Europeans.

Kaja Kallas, the EU’s high representative for foreign and security policy, stated that the strike was a message to the Western world. Speaking from an Arctic conference in Finland, she urged a strong response to show unwavering support for Ukraine, warning against allowing Russia to achieve its objectives.

A spokesperson for Kallas reiterated the EU’s condemnation of the strikes and highlighted the recent approval of a €6.1 billion loan tranche for Ukraine. The EU remains committed to equipping Ukraine to defend itself against Russian aggression.

The attacks, involving over 450 Russian drones and missiles, resulted in at least six deaths and more than 40 injuries. Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting 405 drones and four missiles. Western Ukraine, typically quieter than other regions, was notably affected.

These strikes coincided with EU diplomats meeting in Brussels to discuss the extension of sanctions against Russian entities supporting Putin’s war. The sanctions are set to expire soon, but their renewal faces delays due to internal disputes.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the ongoing defense efforts, emphasizing Ukraine’s role in preventing the spread of aggression into Europe. Ukrainian Railways noted that a diplomatic train carrying European security advisers and former leaders had passed the border crossing ahead of the drone strike, potentially being the target.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, in response to the attacks, warned of the potential impact on Poland, stressing the likelihood of intensified Russian actions in the coming weeks. He revealed that Polish security services and allied intelligence agencies had anticipated such an attack, indicating a Russian strategy to disrupt Ukrainian border operations.

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