Volodymyr Zelensky accuses US of 'weak reaction' after Russian air strike kills 9 kids

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Zelensky Condemns U.S. Response to Deadly Kryvyi Rih Missile Strike, Nine Children Among Fatalities

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has strongly criticized the United States, labeling their reaction as “weak” following a devastating Russian missile strike in Kryvyi Rih. The attack resulted in the deaths of nine children, including a child as young as three years old, and numerous adults. The missile, launched from the Taganrog region, caused widespread devastation and grief.

Tragic Toll: Children Among Victims of Kryvyi Rih Attack

President Zelensky somberly confirmed the identities of the young victims in a heartfelt statement. “Three-year-old Timofey, regrettably, passed away today in the hospital. Seven-year-old Radyslav. Arina, also seven years old. Nine-year-old Herman. Fifteen-year-old Danylo. Fifteen-year-old Mykyta. Fifteen-year-old Alina. Kostiantyn, forever sixteen. Nikita – seventeen. These are the children killed in Kryvyi Rih by a Russian ballistic missile strike,” he declared.

• Timofey, 3 years old (deceased in hospital)
• Radyslav, 7 years old
• Arina, 7 years old
• Herman, 9 years old
• Danylo, 15 years old
• Mykyta, 15 years old
• Alina, 15 years old
• Kostiantyn, 16 years old
• Nikita, 17 years old

He further noted the swiftness of the attack, stating, “There were mere minutes after the missile was launched from the enemy’s Taganrog area.”

In addition to the children, “Regrettably, nine adults also perished. My deepest condolences to all the bereaved families and their loved ones,” Zelensky added.

Volodymyr Zelensky Lashes Out at US Embassy over Reaction

President Zelensky specifically targeted the US Embassy in Kyiv for its perceived inadequate public response, particularly its failure to explicitly name Russia in its condemnation.

“Regrettably, the reaction from the American Embassy is disappointingly surprising: such a powerful nation, such a strong people – and such a feeble reaction,” he expressed.

“They are even hesitant to utter the word ‘Russian‘ when referring to the missile that claimed the lives of children,” Zelensky asserted.

Seeking Enhanced Air Defense Systems

Zelensky disclosed that he had engaged in discussions with U.S. President regarding the provision of additional air defense systems, saying, “We are relying on our agreements with the President of the United States, who pledged assistance in securing supplementary Patriots.”

He concluded his remarks by emphasizing the need for directness and accountability, stating, “We must not be afraid to call matters by their rightful names.”

Commenting on the strike, which reportedly involved the use of drones during rescue operations, President Zelensky conveyed his profound dismay: “There is simply no greater cynicism, depravity, and animosity towards humanity than that which Russia currently embodies.”

International Support and Condemnation

The Ukrainian President voiced his gratitude towards several European nations and their foreign ministers for their prompt condemnation of the assault and their unwavering support for Ukraine.

Regional governor Serhii Lysak officially confirmed the complete death toll on Saturday.

Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the city’s defense council, declared, “There can never be absolution for this. Eternal memory to the victims.”

Express.co.uk has reached out to the US Embassy in Ukraine for their response.

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