Zelenskyy on large-scale attack on Kryvyi Rih: Russia is systematically terrorising life in Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while on a visit to the US, has responded to the large-scale overnight attack by Russian drones on the city of Kryvyi Rih. He has described these strikes as a continuation of Russia's systematic terror against Ukraine's energy sector and stressed that the only guarantee of security is the implementation of agreements with partners, including regarding the strengthening air defence.
Source: Zelenskyy on X (Twitter)
Details: Russian forces conducted a large-scale strike on Kryvyi Rih on the night of 16-17 October. Oleksandr Vilkul, Head of Kryvyi Rih City Defence Council, reported that over 10 explosions had been heard.
Quote from Zelenskyy: "Nothing has changed for Russia – it is still terrorising life in Ukraine. A swarm of drones struck Kryvyi Rih, hitting civilian infrastructure. There were dozens more attack drones in our skies. Missiles were also spotted. In fact, not a single night in recent weeks has passed without Russian strikes on Ukraine. Most of the targets are infrastructure – a systematic campaign of terror against our energy sector."
Details: Zelenskyy emphasised that the Kremlin's goal is to turn the Ukrainian part of Europe into an "island of peril and torment for human life". The Ukrainian president believes that Russia can only be forced to stop the war when it is no longer able to continue it. He again expressed scepticism about Russian leader Vladimir Putin's statements on readiness for peace, noting that real proof is not in words, but "in actually ceasing the strikes and killings".
He once more emphasised Ukraine's critical need for air defence systems.
"Therefore, every air defence system for Ukraine matters – it saves lives. Every decision that can strengthen us brings the end of the war closer. Security can be guaranteed if everything we have agreed on, including here in Washington, is implemented," Zelenskyy concluded.
Background: On 17 October, US President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Zelenskyy, with the possible delivery of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine among the main topics for discussion.
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