Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has publicly condemned the US Embassy in Kyiv for what he termed as a “weak” reaction to a Russian missile attack that resulted in 18 fatalities, nine of them children, in his hometown of Kryvyi Rih on Friday.
In a tweet on X, Zelenskyy posted footage of the time when the missile struck, praising the embassies of Japan, the UK, Switzerland, and Germany for their robust condemnations. But he targeted the US Embassy, describing its response as “disappointingly weak.”
Regrettably, the reaction from the US Embassy is incredibly disappointing so strong a nation, so strong a people, yet such a pitiful response. They fear even to mention the word ‘Russian’ when they talk of the missile that killed children,” Zelenskyy said.
US Ambassador Bridget Brink in Ukraine had previously said that she was “horrified” by the attack, which struck a playground and restaurant. “Over 50 injured, 16 fatalities, including 6 children. This is the reason the war needs to cease,” she posted, without making any direct references to Russia.
Zelenskyy underscored that although he is in favor of ending the war, peace can only be achieved by directly confronting the aggressor. “To end it, we must not be afraid to call things by their names… We must pressure Russia the one choosing to kill children instead of choosing a ceasefire.”
In response to the strike, Ukraine launched drone attacks on an explosives plant in Russia’s Samara region.
The US continues to seek diplomatic avenues, but Zelenskyy doubted the efficacy of diplomacy, stating, “All Russian promises end with missiles and drones, bombs or artillery.”
He reiterated trust in US support, citing President Biden’s assurance to assist Ukraine in obtaining additional Patriot missile systems.
