Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a sharp condemnation on Saturday following a deadly missile strike on his hometown of Kryvyi Rih that left 18 people dead, including nine children. The youngest victim was just three years old—Tymofiy—and the oldest was 17-year-old Nikita. In a heartfelt post on social media, Zelensky named each of the nine children killed and criticized the United States for its muted response, specifically calling out the failure to directly name Russia as the perpetrator.
"Such a powerful country, such a powerful nation—and such a weak reaction," Zelensky wrote. "They are afraid even to say the word 'Russia,' speaking about a missile that killed children." His statement, cited by The Wall Street Journal, reflected deep frustration over what he views as diplomatic caution in the face of clear aggression. The missile strike, which occurred on Friday, also injured at least 61 others and destroyed civilian infrastructure near a playground and a restaurant.
While Zelensky thanked European allies and Japan for their clear condemnation of the attack, he pointedly left out the United States. His dissatisfaction appeared to stem from a statement made by U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink. Her post on X read: "Horrified that tonight a ballistic missile struck near a playground and restaurant in Kryvyi Rih. More than 50 people injured and 16 killed, including 6 children. This is why the war must end." While expressing sorrow, the statement did not name Russia, something Zelensky believes is essential to holding aggressors accountable.
Speaking later in the day, Zelensky addressed the Ukrainian public and reiterated that failing to name Russia in these moments is "wrong and dangerous." He emphasized that the missiles used in the attack were Russian ballistic weapons, and he warned that silence emboldens further violence.
Other diplomats did not hesitate to name Russia. British Ambassador to Ukraine Martin Harris stated, "While Ukraine pursues peace, Russia is striking civilians far from the frontline." Similarly, German Ambassador Martin Jaeger wrote, "Russia is the aggressor" in a direct response to the attack.
Zelensky also used the occasion to renew calls for increased sanctions against Moscow. “It’s necessary to pressure Russia, which chooses the murder of children instead of a cease-fire,” he said. He argued that stronger international pressure is needed not only to punish current acts of violence but also to prevent future ones.
As Ukraine continues to suffer from long-range missile attacks on civilian areas, Zelensky’s appeal underlined a growing rift in perceptions of how forcefully the West, particularly the U.S., is willing to confront Russia's actions. Naming the victims, especially the youngest among them, added an emotional weight to his message: justice, he implied, begins with truth—and that truth includes naming the attacker.
I was once proud to be an American but not now. This fascist regime headed by dumpster trumpster is making a joke of our country. I refuse to acknowledge “it” as my President. It’s response regarding Ukraine and Russia is an embarrassment to America and an insult to the entire free world.
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