Mike Bloomfield

Without America, thousands and thousands more Ukrainians would have been killed by Russian strikes. And millions more would have become refugees. That’s why we always thank America. And we mean it. Even when we say thank you many times in one speech. Just to make sure those who sometimes feel we haven’t thanked them enough can hear us. But we also know that without Europe, Ukraine would not have survived. Without Germany and other European countries, without the EU. The Russians would have burned down far more of our cities and villages if it were not for your help. From the address at the Berlin Security Conference. (2/3)

Search and rescue operations have now been underway for three days at the site of the Russian strike on a school in the settlement of Komyshuvakha in the Zaporizhzhia region. The Russians used nine aerial bombs. They first struck people who had come to receive humanitarian aid, and then first responders and police officers who arrived at the scene. All necessary services are involved. It is an extremely difficult operation, very challenging, and it is being carried out under virtually constant threat of new Russian strikes. As of now, 40 people have been reported killed. Unfortunately, some bodies have not yet been identified. My condolences to the families and loved ones of those killed. More than 30 people may still be under the rubble. Unfortunately, there has been very little reaction from the world to this insane attack. But it, like thousands upon thousands of other war crimes Russia has committed against Ukraine and Ukrainians, demands a strong response. Evil always goes further if it is left unanswered. We count on a response – Ukraine needs air defense support right now. I am grateful to the partners who are taking such steps.