Zelenskyy slams US response as ‘unacceptably weak’ after deadly Russian missile strike

ISTANBUL

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday condemned the United States for what he described as an “unacceptably weak” response to a Russian missile strike that killed 19 civilians and injured more than 70 others in his hometown of Kryvyi Rih.

In a post on X, Zelenskyy called the attack “a massacre” and accused Moscow of displaying “no deeper level of cynicism, vileness, or hatred.” He expressed frustration over the US Embassy’s reaction to the strike, saying, “Such a strong country, such a strong people, and yet such a weak reaction.”

“They are afraid to even say the word ‘Russian’ when speaking about the missile that murdered children,” Zelenskyy added, calling on global leaders to avoid silence and issue clear condemnations. “Every such strike must be met with a response from the world.”

The Ukrainian leader praised European and Asian partners for speaking out against the attack but singled out Washington for its muted tone. “To end this war, we must not be afraid to call things by their names.”

He also renewed his appeal for stronger military support, specifically additional air defense systems.

“We are counting on the delivery of Patriot systems from the United States,” Zelenskyy said. “Only through strength and coordinated action with partners can we stop the killing, save the lives of children, and establish lasting peace.”

The missile strike, which occurred late Friday, hit a civilian area in Kryvyi Rih, according to Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the local defense council.

Regional authorities said the strike involved a Russian ballistic missile that caused widespread destruction in the city. Kryvyi Rih has been targeted multiple times since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The deadly attack took place amid ongoing US-mediated ceasefire and peace negotiations, making it one of the deadliest assaults on civilians in recent weeks.

As of Saturday, Russian officials had not issued a statement in response to the claims.