Kyiv (National Times): Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a blistering rebuke of Western inaction following one of the most devastating Russian aerial attacks on Ukraine since the war began in 2022. Speaking out after the assault that killed 12 civilians, including three children, Zelensky warned that the global silence is only emboldening Russian President Vladimir Putin.
“America’s silence, and the silence of others in the world, only encourages Putin,” Zelensky said in a statement posted on social media, calling for stronger sanctions and clear leadership from the West.
Ukraine Reels from Unrelenting Russian Onslaught
Ukraine was bombarded overnight by 298 drones and 69 missiles in a large-scale coordinated strike. Ukrainian authorities reported 12 dead and 38 injured, with heavy civilian casualties across several regions. This followed another wave just the previous night involving 250 drones and 14 ballistic missiles, which left at least 15 people injured.
Among the dead were three siblings from the Zhytomyr region, Stanislav (8), Tamara (12), and Roman (17), according to Ukrainian Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa, who expressed condolences to the grieving family.
“Each such terrorist attack by Russia is a sufficient reason for new sanctions,” Zelensky insisted. “Determination matters now, from the United States, Europe, and everyone who desires peace.”
Cities Across Ukraine Suffer Devastating Blows
Kyiv and major cities like Mykolaiv and Odesa faced significant damage in the latest wave of strikes. Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko described it as a “massive” attack and urged citizens to take shelter immediately as air defence systems engaged enemy drones overhead.
In Mykolaiv, a residential complex was hit directly, while in Odesa, emergency services battled fires and pulled survivors from the rubble.
International Response: EU Demands Stronger Pressure
In response to the attacks, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned Russia’s aggression, calling for “the strongest international pressure” to be imposed on Moscow.
“It’s devastating to see children among the victims,” Kallas wrote on social media platform X.. “Russia is intent on inflicting suffering and destroying Ukraine.”
Russia Claims New Gains, Reports Drone Interceptions
Meanwhile, Russia’s Defence Ministry claimed control over several territories, including Romanivka in eastern Donetsk, as well as Stupochki, Otradne, and Loknia in Donetsk and Sumy regions. These claims remain unverified by independent sources.
Russia also claimed to have intercepted 110 Ukrainian drones, including 13 near Moscow and Tver, and dozens more in border regions like Bryansk and Belgorod.
As Ukraine continues to face relentless aggression, President Zelensky’s call for international resolve grows more urgent — a plea for action amid escalating devastation.
