French President Emmanuel Macron has strongly condemned the Russian government's attack on Ukraine's National Academy of Sciences in central Kyiv. The attack, which occurred on Monday, damaged the academy's historic headquarters during working hours, resulting in the deaths of two people and injuring several others. Macron described the attack as further evidence of Moscow's hostility towards science, truth, and civilian life.
The National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, founded in 1918, coordinates a wide network of Ukrainian research centres and remains central to the country's scientific and technological development. The institution plays a vital role in Ukraine's research and development sector. The attack on the academy was part of a wider wave of Russian drone attacks across Ukraine that killed at least 10 people and wounded more than 80.
Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia used faster, jet-powered drones that are more difficult for existing air-defence systems to intercept. These drones targeted various locations, including residential buildings, offices, a medical facility, and infrastructure in Kyiv, Dnipro, and several other regions. The attacks have resulted in significant damage and loss of life.
Macron emphasized that the attack on the academy could not be separated from the daily suffering of Ukrainian civilians. He stated that the strikes add to the barbarity of the daily attacks that target Ukrainian civilians. Macron reaffirmed that France and Europe would continue supporting Ukraine, stating that they would stand by the Ukrainian people for as long as necessary.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for additional air-defence systems and stronger international pressure on Moscow. He has urged the international community to take a firmer stance against Russia's actions. Russia maintains that its forces target military and strategic infrastructure, although its strikes have repeatedly damaged homes, hospitals, and other civilian facilities since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
Macron's comments reflect the international community's growing concern over Russia's actions in Ukraine. The French president's condemnation of the attack highlights the need for continued international support for Ukraine. The international community remains vigilant in its response to the ongoing conflict.
The attack on the National Academy of Sciences has significant implications for Ukraine's scientific community and the country's future development. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, and the international community is expected to continue providing support to Ukraine in the face of ongoing aggression.
Key points
- France and Europe will continue supporting Ukraine.
- The attack on the academy resulted in two deaths and several injuries.
- Russia's actions have been condemned by the international community.
