Zelensky Calls on the West to Increase Pressure in Response to Russian Drone Attacks

Facing almost daily drone attacks launched by Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged Western allies on Saturday (March 29) to take more decisive and clear actions in response.

In his routine video address that evening, Zelenskiy pointed out that just the previous night, the Russian military had launched up to 172 drones at Ukraine, with 94 of them being shot down. He emphasized that Russia’s attacks were not only against Ukraine but also a direct provocation to international diplomatic efforts.

“Russia is attempting to destroy every effort aimed at ending the war,” he said. “We cannot turn a blind eye to the hundreds of (Iranian-designed) Shahed drones flying every night. We expect a firm and strong response from the United States, Europe, and all countries supporting the diplomatic route. Russia must be pressured into peace, because only pressure will work.”

Shortly after Zelenskiy’s speech, multiple locations in Ukraine were once again targeted by Russian airstrikes. The second-largest city of Kharkiv suffered a large-scale drone attack, resulting in one death and 14 injuries. In the southeastern city of Dnipro, four people lost their lives, while nine were injured in the central city of Kryvyi Rih.

Despite recent temporary ceasefire agreements reached between Russia and Ukraine, mediated by the United States, concerning Black Sea shipping and attacks on energy facilities, the implementation has been ineffective, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

Zelenskiy also revealed that he had met with the Ukrainian army’s Chief of Staff Oleksandr Syrskyi to discuss the frontline situation spanning 1,000 kilometers and adjustments in operations against Russian incursions. He noted that the Ukrainian military was actively working to halt Russian advances towards the Sumy and Kharkiv regions.

Currently, Ukrainian forces are maintaining a military presence in parts of Russia’s Kursk Oblast, continuing their cross-border operations initiated seven months ago. Zelenskiy further disclosed that the troops had recently embarked on “specific operations” outside of Kursk to shift Russian military pressure and strengthen defenses.

Zelenskiy bluntly stated that the unconditional ceasefire proposal put forth by the United States had long been on the negotiating table, yet Russia had not provided a substantive response. He emphasized, “This in itself speaks volumes. If substantial pressure had been exerted on Russia from the beginning, a ceasefire might have already been achieved.”

In conclusion, he expressed gratitude to international partners who “understand the reality and advocate for necessary decisions,” including countries supporting the imposition of new sanctions.

(Reference: Reuters)