Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly criticized the US Embassy in Kyiv on Saturday (April 5) for its weak response to a deadly Russian missile strike. The attack on his hometown, Kryvyi Rih, killed 18 people, including nine children, and injured at least 62 others.

Zelenskyy Shares Heartbreaking Footage

Zelenskyy posted a video on X (formerly Twitter), showing the exact moment the missile hit. He thanked Japan, the UK, Switzerland, and Germany for their support. However, he expressed disappointment with the US response.

He wrote, “Unfortunately, the response from the US Embassy is surprisingly disappointing – such a strong country, such a strong people, and yet such a weak reaction. They are afraid to even say the word ‘Russian’ when speaking about the missile that murdered children.”

Ukrainian President Urges Clear Language

Zelenskyy stressed the need to call out the aggressor directly. “Yes, the war must end. But to end it, we must not be afraid to call things by their names,” he said. “We must not be afraid to put pressure on the one who continues this war and ignores all the world’s proposals to end it. We must pressure Russia – the one choosing to kill children instead of choosing a ceasefire.”

US Embassy’s Response Falls Short

US Ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink, responded to the strike with a post on X. She said she was “horrified” that a missile hit a playground and restaurant in Kryvyi Rih. “More than 50 people were injured and 16 killed, including 6 children. This is why the war must end,” she wrote. However, she avoided mentioning Russia directly, which Zelenskyy took issue with.

Brink has served as the US Ambassador to Ukraine since May 2022 and has often avoided directly naming Russia in such contexts.

Zelenskyy Hopes for Stronger Global Support

Despite his criticism, Zelenskyy expressed hope that the US and the global community would continue to support Ukraine. He added, “We count on our agreements with the President of the United States, who promised to help find more Patriots. And we count on the strength of the world to overcome this evil – this war, this Russian aggression.”

Following the missile strike, Ukraine retaliated by launching drones at a Russian explosives factory in the Samara region.

Peace Talks Still Stalled

Meanwhile, the US has stepped up its efforts to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine. Yet, no breakthrough has happened. Last month, both sides agreed to stop attacking energy infrastructure, but accusations of violations have continued. Just recently, Zelenskyy blamed Russia for targeting a thermal power plant in Kherson with drones.

“All Russian promises end with missiles and drones, bombs or artillery,” Zelenskyy declared. “Diplomacy is an empty word for them.”