Zelensky Urges Tougher Sanctions After Deadly Russian Strikes Kill 31 in Kyiv

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for stronger international sanctions against Russia following a devastating attack on Kyiv that left at least 31 people dead, including five children the youngest just two years old and injured 159 others.

The assault, which struck residential buildings and damaged a hospital, school, nursery, and university, prompted a day of mourning in the Ukrainian capital on Friday.

“No matter how much the Kremlin denies their effectiveness, sanctions do work and they must be strengthened,” Zelensky said in a statement.

Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched more than 300 drones and eight cruise missiles in the attack, marking one of the deadliest strikes on Kyiv since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.

U.S. President Donald Trump condemned the attack, calling Russia’s actions “disgusting” and signaling that new sanctions against Moscow may be imminent.

Trump, who had earlier set multiple deadlines for Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war, has now given an ultimatum that expires on 8 August. He previously warned of severe tariffs on Russian oil and other exports if Moscow fails to agree to a ceasefire.

Speaking at the United Nations Security Council on Thursday, senior U.S. diplomat John Kelley echoed the call for diplomacy, urging both sides to “negotiate a ceasefire and durable peace.”

Ukrainian officials said they had received “positive signals” from Washington regarding additional sanctions, particularly targeting Russian oil revenues and secondary financial markets.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha praised Trump’s patience but added, “Now is the time to put maximum pressure on Moscow.”

Meanwhile, Germany announced plans to deliver two more U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses.

Zelensky highlighted the scale of Russia’s continued aggression, revealing that in July alone, Russian forces launched over 5,100 glide bombs, 3,800 Shahed drones, and 260 missiles including 128 ballistic missiles.

“Every day matters,” Zelensky stressed. “This can only be stopped through joint efforts from America, Europe, and other global partners.”