Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned a recent wave of Russian drone strikes across Ukraine, asserting that they signal Russia’s lack of intention to end the ongoing conflict. In a video address on March 24, he detailed the extensive nature of the attacks, which involved over 550 drones targeting various cities.
Zelensky reported that despite the efforts of Ukrainian air defense forces, which successfully intercepted more than 500 drones, some managed to hit their targets. The strikes resulted in casualties, with reports indicating over 40 individuals injured, including five children. He expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
“Cities such as Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil, Vinnytsia, Zhytomyr, and regions including Khmelnytskyi, Rivne, and Kharkiv were affected. Unfortunately, there are fatalities. My thoughts are with the families of the deceased,” Zelensky stated.
The President noted that the primary target of these assaults remains Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, but other sites, including historical landmarks, were also damaged. In Lviv, a fire broke out at the Church of St. Andrew, a significant architectural site dating back to the early 17th century.
“The Iranian-made Shahed drones are being used by Russia to strike a church in Lviv. This is a grotesque act that only someone like Putin could appreciate. A maternity hospital in Ivano-Frankivsk was also damaged,” he remarked.
Zelensky emphasized that without increased pressure on Russia, the Kremlin would not be inclined to seek peace. He pointed out that recent easing of sanctions against Russia has emboldened its military actions.
“Currently, there are signals that encourage Russia to continue its aggression. The partial lifting of sanctions has allowed Russia to earn at least $2 billion in recent weeks, which is dangerous for everyone,” he warned.
The President expressed gratitude to those working on new international coordination formats to effectively counter missile and drone attacks. He called for enhanced control and cooperation to prevent Russia and Iran from easily accessing microelectronics and other components necessary for weapon production.
“There must be greater production and collaboration in Europe and other parts of the world to ensure a modern and reliable air defense system,” Zelensky stated.
He added that Ukraine is actively collaborating with partners to prepare agreements focused on air defense. Zelensky concluded by stressing the need for a multi-component air defense strategy, emphasizing that collective efforts are essential for effective protection of airspace.
This recent escalation follows a series of drone attacks on March 24, where nearly 1,000 drones of various types were launched against Ukraine from the night of March 23 through the evening of March 24.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned recent Russian drone strikes as evidence of Russia's unwillingness to end the war. He reported significant casualties and damage to infrastructure, calling for stronger international cooperation to enhance air defense capabilities.