Ukraine, where deadly fighting opposes Russian and Ukrainian forces to the gates of Kiev, announced the general mobilization to try to curb the massive offensive launched by Vladimir Putin, and explosions sounded Friday at dawn in the capital city.
In order to counter the Russian invasion, Volodymyr Zelensky decreed on Thursday evening the general mobilization and the recall of reservists within 90 days in all Ukrainian regions. The leader also regretted that Ukraine was “left alone” against the Russian army while the Atlantic Alliance indicated that it would not send troops there to support it.
The invasion caused an outcry in the international community, especially on the Western side.
The leaders of the 27 EU countries have tightened sanctions against Russia, in the energy, finance and transport sectors, without going so far as to exclude it from the Swift international banking system. “Russian leaders will face unprecedented isolation,” promised Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.