In a powerful response to the recent deadly missile strike on Ukraine's southern port city of Odesa, European Union leaders expressed their strong condemnation of the attack. The strike, reportedly targeting a hangar where Ukrainian forces were preparing naval drones, resulted in the death of five people. The attack took place while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was visiting Odesa with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen took to social media and stated, "No one is intimidated by this new attempt at terror - certainly not the two leaders on the ground nor the brave people of Ukraine." She further emphasized her unwavering support for Ukraine, adding that the EU stands firmly by their side.

The Russian Defense Ministry claimed responsibility for the strike, stating that it targeted the hangar housing Ukrainian naval drones. Heightening tensions in the region, Ukrainian ground forces commander Oleksandr Pavlyuk announced that their forces are seeking to stabilize the front line and plan unspecified counteroffensive actions in the upcoming months. Russian forces, according to Pavlyuk, are concentrating their efforts near the industrial hub of Avdiivka in eastern Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Sweden officially became the 32nd member of NATO on Thursday after a two-year application process. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson was in Washington, D.C., to finalize Sweden's membership in the military alliance. The move comes as a response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the increasing tension caused by Russian aggression. NATO's key principle, known as collective defense, establishes that an attack on one member is considered an attack on all members.

Moldova's President Maia Sandu also expressed concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin's intentions, emphasizing the need for Europe to present a united front against aggression. She claimed that Russia is using disinformation and other tactics to exert control over Moldova. Sandu made these remarks during a joint press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, where the two countries signed a defense cooperation agreement.

In a meeting with US Ambassador Lynne Tracy, Russia's Foreign Ministry warned of potential expulsion for diplomats perceived to be meddling in its internal affairs. The ministry firmly stated that attempts to interfere in Russia's internal affairs will be strongly suppressed. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its effects on regional security have prompted Ukrainian lawmaker Kira Rudik to call for increased weapon supplies to Ukraine from Western leaders. Speaking out on social media, Rudik stressed the importance of eliminating the military threat posed by Russia.

Lithuanian intelligence agencies issued a report indicating that Russia has the resources and capabilities to continue fighting in Ukraine for at least two more years. The report also mentioned Russia's deployment of vessels capable of carrying Kalibr cruise missiles in Lake Ladoga, signaling its dissatisfaction with Finland's NATO membership.

As tensions escalate in the region, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy confirmed the casualties resulting from the Russian attack on Odesa, calling for stronger air defenses to safeguard the country. The attack highlights the urgent need for a resolution to the ongoing conflict and the support of the international community to ensure peace and stability in Ukraine.