US: Russia’s attacks on civilians cast doubt on peace intentions

The latest large-scale strikes on Ukraine carried out by Russia have intensified international criticism and raised doubts about Moscow’s declarations of a willingness to pursue peace.

Washington warned that if the war continues, Russia could face “far-reaching economic consequences.”

John Kelly, the acting deputy permanent representative of the United States to the United Nations, delivered the remarks during a meeting of the UN Security Council.

Kelly stated that “the latest strikes on Ukraine, which have resulted in numerous civilian casualties, the destruction of residential areas, the offices of the EU delegation in Kyiv, and the building where the British Council is located, cast doubt on the seriousness of Russia's desire to achieve peace.” He stressed that such attacks on civilian targets must stop immediately.

He added that US President Donald Trump had warned Moscow of potential new economic measures if it refused to engage in negotiations and continued its aggression. “These measures could have far-reaching consequences for Russia's future economic well-being,” Kelly emphasised.

The US diplomat underlined that Washington is urging Russia to avoid further escalation and to stop the violence by taking part in efforts to end the war. He also recalled that, in recent weeks, the United States has made “exceptional efforts” to secure an end to the conflict, stressing that it is now up to Russia to make the decision to move toward peace.

“The leaders of Russia and Ukraine must agree to hold a bilateral meeting,” Kelly said.

The warnings from Washington came after Russia launched a massive assault on Ukraine on August 28, deploying nearly 600 kamikaze drones and 31 missiles. Kyiv was among the hardest-hit areas, with 25 people confirmed dead and more than 50 others injured.

The United States condemned the attack, saying that such actions by Moscow are undermining President Trump’s ongoing efforts to broker peace. Just a day before the strikes, Trump had reiterated that he has a “serious plan” for Russia should its aggression against Ukraine continue, clarifying that the plan involves heightened economic pressure rather than military escalation, as he does not want to trigger a global conflict.

Meanwhile, 26 European Union member states issued a joint statement condemning the large-scale Russian attack. Hungary was the only EU country that declined to sign the declaration.

By Tamilla Hasanova