Russias actions in Ukraine deemed a dangerous escalation by US officials

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US Accuses Russia of Escalating Conflict in Ukraine

The United States has issued a warning to Russia at an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council, stating that Moscow’s actions are “dangerous and inexplicable”. The US delegation expressed concern over Russia’s use of a nuclear-capable Oreshnik missile in Ukraine, which resulted in significant casualties.

Russia acknowledged the attack on Monday, claiming it targeted an aviation repair factory in western Ukraine. However, the US has disputed this account, stating that the missile was fired in response to Ukrainian attempts to strike one of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s residences.

The UN Security Council meeting came as tensions between Russia and the West continue to escalate. The US has proposed a hard-hitting sanctions package against Russia, while Moscow remains committed to its maximalist demands on Ukraine, including recognition of its annexed territory.

Russia’s ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the diplomatic impasse, stating that he must “come to his senses” and agree to realistic conditions for negotiations. However, Ukraine’s ambassador countered that Russia is more vulnerable now than at any time since its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

On Tuesday morning, Russia launched a new round of strikes on Ukraine’s northeastern city of Kharkiv, killing at least two people and wounding at least three others. Missile strikes were also reported in the capital, Kyiv, although their impact could not be immediately assessed.

The conflict in Ukraine has been ongoing for nearly four years, with both sides accusing each other of aggression. The US has called on Russia to de-escalate its actions, while Moscow remains committed to its goals in Ukraine.

Source: Al Jazeera