Ukrainian president condemns “senseless” Russian strike on Zaporizhia, calls for urgent Western pressure

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has denounced a recent Russian missile strike on a civilian recreation center in the Zaporizhia region as a deliberate act of terror devoid of any military rationale. The attack, which occurred over the weekend, left 12 civilians injured and claimed the lives of two others.

In a statement published on his official Telegram channel, President Zelenskyy emphasized the senseless brutality of the assault, calling it an attempt to terrorize rather than achieve any tangible strategic objective, Caliber.Az reports.

“There is zero military sense in this strike. Only cruelty to intimidate,” Zelenskyy stated.

“Currently, in the Zaporizhia district, our medical teams and emergency responders are assisting the wounded following the Russian strike on an ordinary holiday facility. It is confirmed that twelve individuals have been injured, and, regrettably, there have been two fatalities,” Zelensky remarked.

Emergency response teams continue to work at the scene, providing urgent medical aid to those injured in the attack. The recreation center, reportedly filled with families on holiday, was not linked to any military activity, further underlining the civilian nature of the casualties.

Zelenskyy used the opportunity to reiterate his longstanding appeal to Ukraine’s Western allies, urging them to intensify diplomatic, economic, and military pressure on the Kremlin to bring about a genuine ceasefire.

“Despite the Kremlin’s rhetoric, they will earnestly seek to conclude the war only once subjected to sufficient pressure,” the president asserted. “At this critical juncture, it is imperative to reinforce every instrument within the arsenal of the United States, Europe, and the G7 to ensure an immediate and genuine ceasefire.”

He expressed appreciation for the ongoing support from Ukraine’s international partners, particularly the United States and European nations, but stressed that more decisive action is urgently needed.

“Ukraine recognizes the political resolve and values the unwavering support of our partners — the United States and all those who stand with us — and we remain hopeful for the decisive actions required,” he concluded.

By Vafa Guliyeva