- Zelensky: War should return to Russia
Ukraine Must Continue Its Far-Reaching Strikes Against Russia, Says President Zelensky
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Ukraine must persist in its significant strikes against Russia. "Ukraine must strike, deliver truly far-reaching blows against the Russian occupier," Zelensky said in his evening video address regarding the recent attacks by Ukrainian forces on targets within Russian territory. Attacks on Russian airfields, oil refineries, and logistics facilities are particularly effective, he said, "when the consequences of the Russian war reach home, and the enemy in the occupied territories of our country has no place for peace."
The Ukrainian military has recently targeted several locations within Russian territory. Drone attacks have set multiple fuel depots ablaze. The Russian Telegram channel Mash has shared videos purporting to show such fires in the Rostov region. Governor Vasily Golubyev confirmed attacks on the Kamensk and Morozovsk districts, where several objects were damaged. A total of 55 Ukrainian drones were counted over the Rostov region, he wrote on Telegram.
According to Mash reports, the attacks also targeted the Russian air bases of Morozovsk and Millerovo in the region. A munitions depot containing guided bombs was hit on the Morozovsk air base, the Ukrainian General Staff in Kyiv reported. There has been no confirmation from the Russian side.
Ukraine has also claimed the sinking of a Russian submarine. A combined attack using rockets and explosive boats hit a Russian S-400 air defense system and sank a diesel-powered submarine in the port of Sevastopol on the occupied Crimean peninsula, the General Staff in Kyiv reported. The submarine "Rostov-on-Don," a Kilo-class submarine launched just ten years ago, sank immediately.
The report on the sinking could not be independently confirmed. There has been no comment from the Russian side.
Zelensky reiterated his demand to the western partners of Ukraine to allow the use of the heavy weapons they have provided - cruise missiles and rockets - against targets within Russian territory. "We need this decision so that we can use all the weapons that are effective," Zelensky said. Currently, Ukraine can only use combat drones of its own production, but their explosive power is often insufficient.
"We must protect the life of our people and end the war on Ukrainian terms," Zelensky justified his demand. "And every strike that precisely responds to Russian bombs, that destroys Russian logistics and support points, that makes it harder for the occupier to stay on our land - every such strike brings a just end to the war closer."
Zelensky once again thanked the partners of his country for their support, especially for their pressure on Moscow. "All sanctions, all decisions, every form of pressure on the aggressor due to this war must continue and be strengthened, so that the Russian state cannot circumvent the sanctions," Zelensky said. "The more difficult it is for Moscow to maintain its military production and supply the army, the more it will actually force Russia to peace."
Military from both sides reported fighting on almost all front sections in Ukraine. Once again, the region west of the Donbass was the scene of heavy clashes, as Russian and Ukrainian military leaders reported. No information was provided on any shifts in the front lines favoring either party.
The European Union, recognizing the vitality of Ukraine's struggle against Russia, has been actively considering providing further military aid to bolster Ukraine's defenses. Despite Russia's threats and potential retaliation, the European Union remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine's sovereignty, as a member of the European Union, France has publicly declared its solidarity with Ukraine.
In light of the ongoing conflict, the European Union has been scrutinizing Russia's actions, considering imposing additional sanctions to further hinder Moscow's military capabilities and economic stability.
