The United States has accused Russia of a “dangerous and inexplicable escalation” in the Ukraine conflict, even as the administration of President Donald Trump moves toward initiating peace talks to end the nearly four-year-long war.
During an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council on Monday, US Deputy Ambassador Tammy Bruce highlighted the devastating human cost of the conflict, noting that Russia has intensified its strikes on energy and other critical infrastructure.
Bruce specifically condemned Russia’s recent launch of the nuclear-capable ‘Oreshnik’ ballistic missile. The missile was fired last week near the Polish border, an act Washington views as a blatant threat to NATO member states.
The emergency UN meeting was convened at Kyiv’s request following a massive Russian assault last Thursday night, involving hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles. This attack marked the first combat use of the hypersonic ‘Oreshnik’ missile.
This escalation comes at a sensitive time. Ukraine and its allies claim significant progress in securing guarantees to deter future Russian aggression under a potential US-led peace deal.
Simultaneously, tensions between Moscow and Washington have flared following Russia’s outcry over the seizure of an oil tanker in the North Atlantic.
European leaders have joined the chorus of condemnation, labeling the use of the ‘Oreshnik’ missile as “provocative and unacceptable.”
“At a time when President Trump’s unparalleled commitment to peace has created a glimmer of hope, both sides should be seeking a path toward de-escalation,” Ambassador Bruce stated.
“Instead, Russia’s actions are widening the scope of this war and making it more catastrophic.”
She reminded the Council that nearly a year ago, Russia voted in favor of a Security Council resolution calling for an end to the war in Ukraine.
“It would have been better if their actions matched their words,” Bruce added.
However, Russia’s UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia shifted the blame to Kyiv for the diplomatic deadlock.
He asserted that Moscow would continue to seek a “military solution” until Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agrees to “realistic” terms for negotiations.
In response, Ukrainian Ambassador Andriy Melnyk argued that Russia is currently at its weakest point since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
“The Russian economy is slowing down, and oil revenues are dwindling. Their attempt to project an image of invincibility is nothing more than a facade,” Melnyk said.