Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy Calls for More Pressure on Moscow

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has condemned continued Russian attacks across his country, saying they remain a “daily reality” despite a partial ceasefire agreed upon last week. His remarks come after a series of deadly strikes, including an overnight drone attack on Kyiv and an assault on Zaporizhzhia that reportedly killed a family of three.

Speaking ahead of ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia, Zelenskyy expressed his condolences to the victims and called for greater international action to stop Russia’s aggression. In a post on X, he highlighted the scale of the recent attacks:

“These attacks are a daily reality. This week alone, over 1,580 guided aerial bombs, nearly 1,100 strike drones, and 15 missiles of various types were used against our people.”

Calls for tougher sanctions and military support

Zelenskyy also pointed out that Russian weaponry continues to rely on foreign components, urging stronger sanctions to prevent Moscow from acquiring the materials needed for its war effort.

“All of this weaponry contains at least 102,000 foreign components. That’s why sanctions against Russian terrorists must be more effective. Every loophole that allows them to bypass the sanctions regime must be eliminated,” he wrote.

He emphasized the need for Ukraine’s allies to step up their support with additional air defense systems and military aid.

“New decisions and new pressure on Moscow are needed to bring an end to these strikes and this war. We must strengthen Ukraine and our army – with more air defense systems and real support. I thank all partners who understand this and continue to support Ukraine.”

Zelenskyy's statement comes at a time when the US is looking to pull back from the war and mend its relationship with Russia. Just yesterday, Steve Witkoff, US' special envoy to Ukraine, claimed that Kyiv has agreed to elections. US President Donald Trump has called Zelenskyy a ‘dictator’. 

Ongoing conflict despite ceasefire talks

Despite diplomatic efforts, the fighting continues. The partial ceasefire, brokered last week, has done little to stop military operations. 

The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia are expected to focus on finding a path toward de-escalation, but it remains unclear whether they will lead to any significant breakthroughs.