Putin rejects all peace offers as Zelenskyy urges the world to boost Ukraine's air defense
Photo: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Vitalii Nosach, RBC-Ukraine)
Despite Kremlin statements and Russian President Vladimir Putin's claims of being ready for peace, attacks on Ukraine have only intensified this summer, says Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome.
Zelenskyy reminded that a year ago, many believed Russia truly sought peace talks and a ceasefire, as Moscow sent corresponding signals.
However, the President noted that this turned out to be part of a propaganda effort aimed at shifting responsibility for the lack of peace onto Ukraine.
"We said back then — there must be pressure on Russia, because it was not preparing for peace. And now everyone sees that Putin has rejected all peace proposals and is escalating violence," he added.
Zelenskyy told partners that during that night alone, two people were killed in Kyiv, and 16 more were wounded. He also mentioned a medical laboratory that was completely destroyed, as well as damaged residential buildings, a shopping center, a veterinary clinic, and key city infrastructure.
"And that was with many, many drones and missiles being shot down. Still, some made it through. This is what we must focus on first. We must stop Russian drones and missiles. This means more air defense supplies and more investments in interceptor drones, air defense systems, and missiles," he emphasized.
The Ukrainian President called on all Ukrainian partners to increase their investments.
"When Russia increases its attacks, we cannot have a shortage of funding for drone production. More than 30 countries and hundreds of companies are represented today at the conference. We must reach a point where Ukraine's air defense and drone sector is supported by over 30 countries and backed by hundreds of companies not only from Ukraine, but also Europe, the US, and beyond," Zelenskyy stressed.
Russian attack on Kyiv, July 10
On the night of July 10, Russian forces again attacked Ukraine with missiles and drones. Kyiv was the primary target of the enemy strike.
Russians launched kamikaze drones as well as ballistic and cruise missiles toward the capital. The attack caused damage in six districts of the city.
Specifically, buildings were damaged, fires were reported, and other consequences occurred. The worst damage occurred in Shevchenkivskyi District.
For more details on the consequences of the Russian attack on the capital, read RBC-Ukraine's report.
It is worth noting that, as Zelenskyy said, most air targets were shot down by the Ukrainian Air Force. Overall, more than 90% of Russian targets were neutralized during the night.
