US Republican Congressman Joe Wilson has condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “war criminal” following a devastating missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih that killed at least 18 people, including nine children, and injured over 60 others.
Wilson responded to the attack, which targeted a residential neighborhood and a children’s playground, with a strongly worded statement:
“Russia targeted and conducted a missile strike on a neighborhood playground in Kryvyi Rih. Nine CHILDREN were murdered along with a growing number of adults. Do not look away from the parents weeping over the bodies of their children, emergency workers desperately trying to save those clinging to life. More than 60 injured. War criminal Putin is a pathetic stain on humanity and must be defeated in Ukraine. The entire world will benefit.”
The April 4 strike shocked the global community with its brutality. Among the victims were children as young as three, while 12 others remain in critical condition. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the attack further proof that Russia is actively choosing war over peace and urged the world to step up pressure on Moscow.
Wilson’s statement adds to growing calls among Western lawmakers and officials for stronger international action against Russia, including further sanctions and increased military support for Ukraine.
The Congressman emphasized that Russia’s defeat in Ukraine is not only vital for Kyiv’s survival but also in the interest of global security:
“The entire world will benefit,” he stressed, reiterating his position that Putin’s actions represent a threat to all democratic nations.
Russia targeted and conducted a missile strike on a neighborhood playground in Kryvyi Rih. Nine CHILDREN were murdered along with a growing number of adults. Do not look away from the parents weeping over the bodies of their children, emergency workers desperately trying to save…
— Joe Wilson (@RepJoeWilson) April 5, 2025
