"Today marked one of the largest and most dangerous Russian strikes throughout the war. A total of 210 drones and missiles, including hypersonic and air-launched ballistic missiles. [...] The target for Russia was specifically energy and critical infrastructure. This serves as a response to all those who hoped to achieve something through conversations, phone calls, and embraces with Putin – appeasement. Today, this 'dove of peace' sent us another wave of 'kinzhals' and 'kalibrs'. This is his diplomacy. His language is treachery," said Zelensky.
The President of Ukraine emphasized that the aggressor country has been doing the same thing for "almost 1000 days, and we need to defend ourselves against it."
"We must be strong. The time should be invested not in talking to someone in Moscow, but in truly forcing Russia to act before the war ends," he believes.
Zelensky acknowledged the efforts of Ukrainian air defense forces, who are intercepting "Russian evil," and noted that American Patriot missile systems and F-16 fighter jets have once again "performed brilliantly."
"A special thanks to all our partners who assist us with systems and missiles. This is truly a global effort. Every time these Russian strikes occur, we see how crucial it is that our partners do not leave Patriot and other systems sitting in warehouses, but instead provide them to those who know how to defend lives and are in need of them. We have not yet received all the necessary systems from our partners. But we continue to work. When this result is achieved, the response to attacks will be more comprehensive," he emphasized.
The President of Ukraine declared that Ukraine "will definitely respond to the occupier."
"We must withstand the pressure now. Any pressure. Any strikes. To achieve our goals next year. To achieve peace," Zelensky believes.