'Our strength is in our unity': Zelenskyy urges not to lift sanctions on Russia

"I also thank Poland’s President, Mette Frederiksen, Gitanas Nausėda, Alar Karis, and Edgars Rinkēvičs for their words of support and sincere condolences following Russia’s strike last night," Zelenskyy said.

He added that Ukraine is deeply saddened by the news of the F-16 crash, in which a Polish pilot was killed.

"Our hearts are with the family and loved ones of the deceased," the president emphasized.

Zelenskyy stressed that the key strength in countering aggression lies in the unity of partners.

"Our strength is in our unity. And it is very reassuring that our position is united: achieving peace requires increasing pressure on Russia," he said.

The president highlighted that sanctions against Russia are effective and must remain in place. In his view, Moscow’s refusal to participate in a leaders’ format should receive tangible responses.

He also emphasized the importance of ongoing coordination among partners.

"It is extremely important that we maintain continuous coordination, working side by side so that a unified European position is clearly heard in Washington," he stated.

Massive attack on Kyiv

On the night of August 28, Russian forces carried out a massive combined attack on Kyiv. Russia targeted the capital with Shahed drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, including Kinzhal missiles.

Air Forces of Ukraine spokesperson Yurii Ihnat noted that this was one of the most massive attacks on the capital.

As a result of the nighttime assault, destruction was recorded in all districts of Kyiv. This happened for the first time since the start of the full-scale war.

In particular, in the Darnytskyi district, a missile hit a five-story residential building. One of the entrances was completely destroyed, with the strike hitting the third and fourth floors, causing extensive damage.

For more details on what is currently known about the Kyiv attack on August 28, see the RBC-Ukraine report.