On the night of October 31, 2024, Russian troops carried out a powerful attack on Kharkiv, once again turning their weapons against civilians. A missile smashed the entire section of a nine—story building from the sixth to the first floor in the Saltovska district, almost completely destroying the building’s entrance. According to preliminary data, more than 35 people were injured, including children. One 12-year-old boy died, and another child remains under the rubble. Search and rescue efforts are continuing, battling fire and removing debris to find victims, despite the significant risk of new collapses. Unfortunately, the number of victims and wounded may increase.
This tragedy shows the whole world that Russia does not stop its aggression. Kharkiv, like other Ukrainian cities, lives under the constant shelling. Today, more than ever, Ukraine needs the support of the international community to protect its territory and population. Every delay in making decisions or assistance could mean new victims and destroyed cities. In these circumstances, the international community should unite around the Victory Plan of the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy, a comprehensive and fair initiative to restore peace.
Zelenskyy’s Plan includes five key points to strengthen Ukraine, its economic and social recovery, as well as integration into international security structures. Among other things are Ukraine’s bid to join NATO to strengthen security in the region, the restoration of territorial integrity, including Crimea and Donbas, economic revival through investment and support of entrepreneurship, the implementation of social justice programs to help the population affected, as well as the continuation of international support, including financial assistance and military equipment.
The United States, Great Britain and Poland, as well as the Nordic countries of Denmark, Iceland, Norway, Finland and Sweden has already supported the Plan. These countries understand that sustainable peace is possible if Russian aggression is completely stopped and Ukrainian sovereignty is restored. NATO and the EU countries’ support of Zelenskyy’s Victory Plan indicates that it is a safe way to guarantee a just peace and strengthening of the international legal order.
Unlike the China—Brazil “Friends of Peace” initiative, Zelenskyy’s Plan offers a workable scheme and fair solution. The so—called “China—Brazil six-point consensus” raises many questions, since it does not demand the withdrawal of Russian troops. This risks freezing the conflict, which could lead to the legitimization of the occupation of Ukrainian territories. In addition, Ukraine did not participate in the development of this plan, which makes it unviable, since it ignores the country’s right to self-determination. China and Brazil focus on their own geopolitical interests rather than on a real solution, which can only dramatize the situation in the region.
The international community is now facing a critical choice. Today, Ukraine needs real support, not just statements and discussions. The world community should act now, before it is too late. Only coordinated actions and full support for Zelenskyy’s Victory Plan will help stop the aggression and bring peace to Europe.
