Zelenskyy Condemns Global “Silence” as Russia Launches Massive Airstrikes on Ukraine

Kyiv, Ukraine: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has sharply criticized what he described as the world’s “silence” following a new wave of large-scale Russian missile and drone attacks that struck multiple cities across Ukraine, leaving several civilians dead and many injured.

Heavy Bombardment Across the Country

Over the weekend, Russia launched one of its most extensive air offensives in months, targeting key urban centers and energy facilities. The strikes hit Lviv, Zaporizhzhia, Kharkiv, and Odessa, causing widespread destruction to homes, schools, and power infrastructure.

Authorities confirmed at least six deaths and numerous injuries, including a teenage girl and members of her family who were killed when their home was destroyed. Emergency crews worked through the night to rescue people trapped beneath rubble and restore essential services disrupted by the attacks.

Zelenskyy’s Strong Rebuke

In a televised address, Zelenskyy accused Russia of deliberately escalating its assault ahead of the winter season, aiming to cripple Ukraine’s power grid and leave millions without heating. He expressed frustration at what he called the lack of an adequate international response to Russia’s continued aggression.

“The silence of the world only emboldens Putin,” Zelenskyy said, adding that the absence of strong action or consequences allows Moscow to intensify its brutality.

He urged Ukraine’s allies to move beyond expressions of concern and to take tangible steps — including stricter sanctions, tighter controls on components used in Russian weapons, and an accelerated supply of advanced air defense systems.

Regional and Global Tensions Rise

The airstrikes triggered airspace alerts across neighboring countries, with Poland briefly deploying fighter jets as a precaution. European leaders condemned the attacks and reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, but Kyiv insists that words of solidarity are no longer enough.

Analysts warn that Russia’s renewed focus on Ukraine’s energy and transport networks could plunge parts of the country into darkness during the harsh winter months, worsening the humanitarian situation and displacing more civilians.

The Cost of Inaction

Zelenskyy’s remarks underscore a growing sense of urgency as Ukraine braces for another difficult winter under siege. He warned that continued global hesitation could encourage Moscow to escalate further, with devastating consequences not only for Ukraine but for regional stability as a whole.

As the war nears its third year, the Ukrainian leader’s message was clear: without decisive international measures, Russia will interpret silence as permission to continue its campaign of destruction.