US has spoken of 'Putin’s readiness for peace,' but he chooses ballistic missiles - Zelenskyy
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
The Russian President Vladimir Putin chose to attack Ukraine instead of negotiating a ceasefire, according to the evening address of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The head of state noted that rescue operations continued throughout the day at several locations in Kyiv following the Russian strike, during which the enemy used nearly 600 drones and 31 missiles, including ballistic ones.
As of now, 19 civilian deaths have been confirmed, including four children.
Zelenskyy emphasized that such an attack demonstrates Russia’s desire to wage war and strike not only at Ukrainians but also at everyone seeking peace, including Europe and US President Donald Trump.
"In Washington, we heard that Putin is supposedly ready to end the war — to hold a leaders’ meeting and resolve key issues. But he chooses ballistic missiles over any real steps toward peace. He kills children to avoid talking about when and how peace will come. The problem is that he isn’t afraid to strike at the very leaders he makes promises to," the president added.
According to him, a clear response from the world to this evil is necessary. There are no deadlines that Putin wouldn’t violate, and no diplomatic opportunities that haven’t been spoiled because of Russia.
"Sanctions are needed. Tariffs are needed on those who finance this war," Zelenskyy said.
What the US says about Putin
Earlier, US President Donald Trump had already stated several times that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants to end the war.
In particular, the American leader made a similar statement even on March 7 — the day when Russia launched a massive strike on Ukraine.
Meanwhile, on August 27, the US president’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, who has met with Putin several times, also said that the Kremlin leader "expressed a desire" to end the war against Ukraine.
