Ukraine war: Blasts reported in Russian city Belgorod and occupied Crimea
BBC NewsJAN 2024
Ukraine Calls for Increased Missile Defenses Following Russian Attacks
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The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
With Russian Pres. Vladimir Putin sending as many as 500 missiles into Ukraine over the past five days — prompting many Ukrainians to spend much of their New Year period in bomb shelters — he has given an indication of the Kremlin’s intentions for the coming weeks. It's more imperative than ever that Ukraine is fitted with all the missile defense capabilities it needs.
Pro-Ukraine narrative
Russia's attacks on Ukraine over the past week are nothing short of premeditated terror. Ukraine not only needs the necessary missile defense capabilities but also the weapons needed to defeat Russia and stop it from spreading to Europe and elsewhere. Ukraine is confident its partners will continue to help fight for these necessary aims.
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia has reiterated time and again that its attacks only target sites of military importance. However, the same cannot be said of Ukraine. Kyiv's use of cluster munitions to attack the Russian city of Belgorod killed 25 people and left a further 100 needing treatment. This is a flagrant violation of international law and world agencies like the UN need to condemn this behavior.