Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reported that Russia launched missile strikes on Kyiv on May 14, utilizing missiles produced within the current year. He emphasized that without components sourced from Western countries, these missiles would not have been operational.
Zelensky noted that Ukraine is actively pursuing sanctions aimed at disrupting supply channels to Russia for components used in the production of drones and missiles. He stated, “In this week’s strike on Kyiv, the Russians employed missiles manufactured this year. Without parts from companies in Europe, Japan, and the United States, they would not have been able to produce these missiles. This is also true for most other weaponry used to strike our cities and residential buildings.”
The President warned that Russia’s global connections facilitating its war efforts pose a direct threat not only to Ukraine but potentially to Europe and other neighboring regions. He remarked, “If the Russian war machine remains intact, future strikes could extend beyond Ukraine to Europe and other distant regions. The aggressor has already demonstrated its capabilities in Syria and various African countries.”
Zelensky expressed concern about the current state of Russian military operations, stating, “The Russians are significantly constrained by our defenses here, but what will happen next? Where will they go? It requires determination to push this country toward becoming safer for the world. Sanctions and all other forms of pressure are the best tools for achieving this.”
President Zelensky has highlighted the role of Western components in Russian missile production following recent strikes on Kyiv. He called for continued sanctions to disrupt Russia's military supply chains and emphasized the broader implications of Russia's military actions for global security.