Fellow Ukrainians!
For much of the day today, work continued in Kyiv and the region – in Boryspil and Brovary – in the aftermath of the Russian strike. It was a combined attack involving many ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. Unfortunately, ballistic missiles are the most difficult challenge right now. While about 90 percent of the cruise missiles in this attack were intercepted, the situation with ballistic missiles is significantly worse. We need missiles for Patriots, and only our partners can provide them. At all levels, we convey to them both what we need and the fact that we know our partners are capable of meeting this need. We ain’t talking about gifts. Ukraine is ready to buy the weapons. What matters is that decisions be made – appropriate political decisions by our partners, first and foremost in the U.S.
I am grateful to everyone who is genuinely helping Ukraine defend itself and save lives. This Russian strike alone killed 16 people. My condolences to their families and loved ones. Nearly 50 more people were wounded. More than 200 sites were damaged, including 86 residential buildings, a children’s hospital, social infrastructure, and commercial facilities. Russia continues its war against people and against life, and the only realistic way to stop it is through force and by working together – no one should be left to face such an enemy alone. We will certainly respond to this Russian strike, just as we respond to other Russian strikes – our response will be fully justified and long-range. Ukraine’s long-range capabilities will receive even more resources.
Today, I also signed decrees imposing new sanctions – several packages. Against Russia’s military-industrial complex, and against individuals who, in one way or another, have themselves become part of the Russian way of life and maintain ties with that state despite even such a war. These include collaborators in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine, as well as former figures from Ukraine who are now somewhere in Europe, but by their documents, connections, and spirit, they are in Russia. We will continue our work on sanctions and align our sanctions under Ukrainian jurisdiction with those of our partners.
And one more point.
We are preparing decisions within the diplomatic team – new approaches are needed in some areas, particularly in the United States. Following the relevant consultations, appointments will be made. Ukraine needs results.
I thank everyone who works for our state! I thank everyone who defends Ukraine and Ukrainians.
Glory to Ukraine!