"Russia understands only strength," says Zelenskyy after Ukraine strikes on Crimean Bridge logistics
Kyiv, June 21
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday said that Kyiv had carried out long-range strikes against Russian military logistics, oil infrastructure and air defence systems, including facilities linked to the Crimean Bridge, calling the it a response to "Russia's brutal attacks."
In a post on X, Zelenskyy said, "Last night, our long-range sanctions targeted the occupiers' military logistics, oil industry, and air defense. All of this is a just response to Russia's brutal attacks against our people."
Zelenskyy praised Ukrainian forces involved in the operation, saying, "I thank the warriors of the Security Service of Ukraine, the Unmanned Systems Forces, the Defense Intelligence of Ukraine, and the Special Operations Forces for their successful work at a distance of about 300 kilometers from the frontline."
The Ukranian President said the strikes hit "facilities on both sides of the Crimean Bridge", including maritime logistics used to transport oil in Russia's Krasnodar region and "an oil depot in temporarily occupied Kerch." He added that "military logistics facilities were successfully struck, along with four radar stations belonging to S-400 systems and two Pantsir systems."
"I am grateful to all our warriors for their precision and professionalism. Russia understands only strength, and our long-range strength is certainly working for peace. Glory to Ukraine," he added.
At least four people died in Ukrainian drone attack on the Crimean Peninsula while several were injured, the Russian authorities said, as reported by DW.
In another post on X, Zelenskyy highlighted the impact of Saturday's "Russian strikes" across Ukraine, saying, "Just yesterday, Russian guided aerial bomb strikes on Zaporizhzhia killed 5 people and injured 26 others. In Poltava, tragically, 2 people were killed and 12 were injured as a result of the shelling, including 6 children. My condolences to their families and loved ones."
He said the Dnipro, Kharkiv, Odesa, Sumy, Donetsk, Kirovohrad, and Rivne regions also came under attack and noted that frontline and border communities were "constantly targeted by drones."
According to Zelenskyy, "this week alone, the Russians launched about 2,200 attack drones, more than 1,800 guided aerial bombs, and 87 missiles of various types against Ukraine."
The rising hostilities come amid the backdrop of renewed support to Kyiv at the G7 summit, where leaders reaffirmed solidarity with Ukraine in the war against Russia, agreeing to increase additional air defence systems, licenses to increase military production, while strengthening sanctions against the Russian oil and gas sectors.
Issuing a formal declaration, the Heads of State and Government of the G7 expressed "unwavering support" for Ukraine and lauded the nation and its citizens for their "resilience and progress" amid the prolonged conflict.
To boost Ukraine's defence capabilities, the G7 leaders agreed to further boost the air defence systems, interceptors and long-range ammunition, while granting licenses to increase Ukraine's military production. The leaders also agreed to strengthen the energy requirements of Kyiv and assured additional support ahead of the upcoming winter.
Expressing commitment to increase pressure on Russia, the G7 leaders announced the strengthening of sanctions on its oil and gas sectors.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Interesting how the G7 is pouring weapons into this conflict but talks about 'peace'. From India's perspective, we've seen how prolonged sanctions hurt global economies and energy prices. It's the common man who suffers everywhere. 🤔
Zelenskyy saying 'Russia understands only strength' – this is exactly why India maintains strategic autonomy. We need to balance relationships with both Russia and the West. America's Afghan exit showed what happens when big powers lose interest. India must stay pragmatic.
As an American, I support Ukraine, but I worry about escalation. The Crimean Bridge is symbolic and strategic. Striking it could provoke a wider war. Diplomacy must be tried harder. However, Russia started this invasion, so Ukraine has the right to defend itself.
The numbers are staggering: 2,200 attack drones, 1,800 guided bombs, 87 missiles in just one week! 😨 This is industrial-scale destruction. India must continue pushing for ceasefire and dialogue at all international forums. War never gives permanent solutions, only temporary victories with permanent scars.
Respectful criticism: Zelenskyy talks about Russia understanding strength, but has this strategy actually worked? Two years on, Russia holds more territory than ever. Ukraine needs a realistic path to negotiations, not just more weapons. India's experience with Pakistan shows that military posturing alone doesn't bring peace.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.