The Novokavka Dam in Ukraine was destroyed in a deliberate act of sabotage and the resulting flood threatens a humanitarian catastrophe. Tens of thousands of people live in the area and the destruction coincided with the beginning of a Ukrainian counter-offensive against Russian occupiers in the south and east. GB News’s Tim Smith reported that over 1.2 kilometres of territory has been captured by the Ukrainians. Although the Ukrainians are euphoric about their counter-attack, they are also anxious as the attack carries the risk of major casualties. The Russians have regrouped and dug in, preparing for a long battle. Tim Smith suggested the West’s delay in sending materials, particularly F-16 fighters, gave the Russians time to prepare and will make them difficult to dislodge from Ukrainian land.
Ukrainian MP Oleksii Honcherenko reported on the devastation of households and animals found miles away on the Black Sea and the lack of help on the left side of the river which is controlled by Russia. Britain’s Foreign Government Lord Owen agreed that the West must respond, suggesting the provision of weapons with a longer range and F-16 aircraft, but cautioned there must be no involvement in a third world war. He argued the British people are behind the necessary response, being moved by the courage of Ukrainian people like the family staying in his cottage.
Public opinion is important in encouraging the government to help the Ukrainians, however, Lord Owen also warned that the details of the response must be left to the Ukrainians and their best judgement. He argued that an appropriate response from the West could stop the situation from escalating into a third world war and must be delivered urgently to stop the devastation and prevent a fatal amount of casualties.