Zelenskyy issues blistering response to massive Russian strike

Overnight on April 16, the Russian military struck multiple Ukrainian regions with missiles and drones. Hits and damage to ordinary houses occurred. People were killed in Odesa, Kyiv, and Dnipro. Among the victims was a 12-year-old boy. In total, 100 people were injured.

This was reported by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The president stressed that yesterday afternoon and throughout the night, the aggressor Russia used nearly 700 drones, 19 ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles against Ukraine. According to him, the majority of the ballistic missiles targeted Kyiv.

"Another night that proves Russia deserves no softening of global policy or lifting of sanctions," the Ukrainian leader stated. "Russia is betting on war, and that is exactly how we must respond: we must protect lives with all our strength and apply pressure for peace with equal force."

Zelenskyy insisted there can be "no normalization" of a Russia that acts this way, calling for sustained pressure on the Kremlin.

He also stressed the “critical importance of timely delivery” on every aid commitment made to Ukraine.

"There are many political commitments from partners that have been voiced but not yet realized—both through the Ramstein format and bilaterally. I have instructed the Air Force Commander to contact partners who pledged missiles for Patriot and other defense systems," the President emphasized.