Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has issued a fervent plea to the international community, condemning Russia’s latest “large-scale and vile” aerial assault and reiterating his call for decisive action to end the war. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Zelenskyy provided a grim account of the recent attacks and underscored Ukraine’s urgent need for enhanced air defence.
“Every night, our forces work to protect lives,” Zelenskyy stated, describing the recent onslaught. “Today, there was a large-scale and vile Russian attack. Ballistic missiles — some were successfully intercepted. There were also 250 drones, mostly Shaheds.” He expressed gratitude to those assisting Ukraine with air defence, emphasising that “Delivering air defence systems to us means real protection for people — here and now.”
The Ukrainian leader painted a stark picture of Russia’s intentions, asserting that Moscow “fills each day with horror and murder, it’s simply dragging out the war.” He stressed that such actions demand a robust international response. “All of this demands a response, a strong response from the United States, from Europe, and from everyone in the world who wants this war to end.”
Zelenskyy firmly laid the blame for the prolonged conflict at Russia’s feet, highlighting repeated rejections of ceasefires by President Putin. “Putin has refused to cease fire repeatedly. It gains him nothing, except taking lives every single day,” he declared. For Zelenskyy, each day of continued Russian aggression provides “new grounds for sanctions against Russia” and “proves that without pressure on Russia, the war will continue.”
Despite the relentless attacks, Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine’s commitment to diplomatic solutions, but only those yielding tangible outcomes. “Ukraine is ready for any form of diplomacy that delivers real results. We are ready for all steps that can guarantee true security,” he stated, contrasting this with Russia’s stance: “It is Russia that is not ready for anything.” His words served as a powerful testament to Ukraine’s resilience while intensifying his call for urgent and substantial global support.
Every night, our forces work to protect lives. Today, there was a large-scale and vile Russian attack. Ballistic missiles — some were successfully intercepted. There were also 250 drones, mostly Shaheds. I am grateful to everyone helping Ukraine with air defence. Delivering air… pic.twitter.com/x4c34pe7mO
— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 24, 2025
Background to the Ongoing Conflict
The recent intensified attacks are part of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022. While initial Russian efforts to quickly seize Kyiv failed, the conflict has since devolved into a brutal war of attrition, particularly in eastern and southern Ukraine. Russia continues to target critical infrastructure, including energy facilities, and civilian areas across the country with drones and missiles, aiming to break Ukrainian resolve and undermine its defence capabilities. Ukraine, supported by Western military aid, continues to resist, pushing for the liberation of its occupied territories and seeking to bolster its air defence systems against the constant aerial threats. The conflict has led to a devastating humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and causing widespread destruction.
