**Summary: Ukrainian Defense Minister vows to respond to Russian missile attacks**

– **Ukraine’s response**: On November 22, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov announced plans to retaliate against Russia’s recent missile strikes. He labeled it the second significant escalation by Russia this year, following the deployment of third-party forces earlier. Ukraine is enhancing its air defense and military capabilities but acknowledges the challenging battlefield situation.

– **Support from Sweden**: Swedish Defense Minister Pal Jonson reaffirmed support for Ukraine, with plans to provide approximately 25 billion krona ($2.2 billion) in aid during 2025–2026. Sweden will assist in producing long-range missiles and UAVs to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities.

– **Czech visit**: Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky visited Kyiv, condemned Russian missile attacks, and pledged continued support for Ukraine. He urged Europe not to be intimidated by Russia’s actions.

– **Russia’s large-scale offensive**: Russia used a medium-range hypersonic missile in combat for the first time, targeting the Yuzhmash rocket and defense plant in Dnipro. This action was in retaliation for Ukraine’s attacks with U.S.-made ATACMS and U.K.-made Storm Shadow missiles. The Kremlin emphasized the missile strike as a warning to the West, cautioning against supplying missiles and supporting Ukraine.

– **Ukraine’s reaction**: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Russia’s use of hypersonic missiles as a significant and clear escalation, calling for strong global condemnation.

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