Zelenskyy: only increased pressure on Russia can stop attacks on Ukrainian cities

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that only stronger international political and economic pressure on Russia can bring an end to Moscow’s regular attacks on Ukrainian cities and help achieve lasting peace.

Zelenskyy said decisive and coordinated action by Ukraine’s international partners is needed to stop ongoing Russian missile and drone strikes, alongside continued military assistance for Kyiv.

“All of these attacks must be stopped. We need sufficient support for our defence and continued pressure on Russia,” Zelenskyy said.

The President stressed that world leaders should make full use of available tools, including long-term sanctions and economic restrictions targeting Russia.

“Our long-term sanctions, the sanctions imposed by our partners and every form of political and economic pressure on Russia must be effective in achieving real security. Only pressure will work in securing peace,” he stated.

Zelenskyy also commented on the aftermath of a recent Russian drone strike on the city of Dnipro, saying emergency crews continue to deal with the consequences of the attack. Significant resources and specialised equipment have been deployed and firefighting operations remain ongoing.

According to preliminary information cited by the President, no casualties were reported.

Russian forces launched a drone attack on Dnipro earlier the day, causing a large fire at a logistics company warehouse. The blaze also spread to nearby parked vehicles, resulting in significant material damage.