World leaders have reacted to the report of two people died of explosion in a Polish village near the border with Ukraine as Ukraine and Russia battle continue.
There were unconfirmed reports that it was Russian missiles that landed on Polish territory, but Russian Defense Ministry denied the reports, describing them as “a deliberate provocation aimed at escalating the situation”.
The Polish Foreign Ministry had earlier said that a Russian-made rocket had fallen on the village.
“We do not have any conclusive evidence at the moment as to who launched this missile. it was most likely a Russian-made missile, but this is all still under investigation at the moment,” Polish President Andrzej Duda told reporters.
United States President, Joe Biden said on tweets that he express his deep condolences for the loss of life in Eastern Poland and offer the full support for Poland’s investigation of the explosion.
He added that United States will remain in close touch to determine appropriate next steps as it proceeds.
United States Secretary General, Antonio Guterres said he is very concerned by the reports of a missile exploding on Polish territory. “It is absolutely essential to avoid escalating the war in Ukraine.
He sent his condolences to the families of the victims, while hoping that a thorough investigation will be conducted. “We are closely monitoring the situation and are in touch with Polish authorities and partners and allies”, Guterres added.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau said on tweets, “I’m being briefed on the latest developments in Poland. We’re closely monitoring the situation, and we’re in contact with our partners and allies right now. During this difficult time, I’m sending my deepest condolences to the Polish people.
French President tweeted, “I spoke with Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki to express our solidarity. Poland can count on France’s support and our readiness to assist in ongoing investigations”.
United Kingdom Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak said on Twitter that he spoken to Polish President Andrzej Duda following reports of a missile strike in Poland.
He reiterated the UK’s solidarity with Poland and expressed condolences for the victims. “We will remain in close contact and continue to coordinate with our NATO allies”.
European Commission President, Von der leyen said she is alarmed by reports of an explosion in Poland, following a massive Russian missile strike on Ukrainian cities. “I extend my condolences and my strongest message of support and solidarity with Poland and our Ukrainian friends”.
Meanwhile, NATO Ambassadors have concluded to meet today Wednesday at the request of Poland on basis of the alliance’s Article 4, two European diplomats told Reuters after an explosion in Poland close to the Ukrainian border reportedly caused by a stray Russian missile.
According to article 4 of the alliance’s founding treaty, members can raise any issue of concern, especially related to the security of a member country. One of the diplomats said the alliance would act cautiously and needed time to verify how exactly the incident happened.