Russia ends partial ceasefire: Zelenskyy says Ukraine will respond symmetrically
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (photo: facebook.com/zelenskyy.official)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reacted to Russia's massive overnight attack. Ukraine will respond symmetrically, according to statements published by Zelenskyy and Sybiha.
More than 200 drones and aerial bombs
In one night, Russia launched more than 200 attack drones at Ukraine. At the same time, more than 80 aerial bombs and over 30 airstrikes were recorded along the frontline.
Among the consequences of the attack were damage to energy facilities, residential apartment buildings, and a kindergarten. A civilian railway locomotive was also hit.
"It is known that there are wounded as a result of these strikes. Unfortunately, there are also dead. My condolences to relatives and loved ones," the president added.
Zelenskyy also reminded about previously stated position regarding a symmetrical response to Russia's actions.
"We said that we would act symmetrically in response to all Russian steps. Russia must end this war, and it is precisely Russia that must take a step toward a real and lasting ceasefire," he said.
Zelenskyy also urged partners not to weaken pressure on Moscow.
"Until this happens, sanctions against Moscow are necessary and must continue working and be strengthened. It is important that there are no relaxations and that partners do not stay aside, but continue joint work for security, justice, and reliable peace," he stressed.
Foreign Ministry: Ukraine offered to extend the ceasefire
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Kyiv had offered Moscow to extend the partial ceasefire after May 11. Instead, it received a massive attack.
"Putin's repeated rejection of peace must have consequences for him. Stronger pressure through Ukraine's effective long-range sanctions and our partners' strong decisions," Sybiha wrote.
The Russian president must realize that the situation for him will only worsen, and that "his only option must be to stop the terror," the foreign minister stressed.
After Russia announced a three-day ceasefire, Ukraine was already preparing for new attacks. Zelenskyy warned that Russia was not demonstrating a real desire to stop the war.
Meanwhile, kindergarten and railway infrastructure caught fire as a result of an overnight attack. There are dead and wounded in different regions after a massive strike.
