Ukraine Calls Out US Embassy for Weak Statement After Deadly Attack

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned what he called a brutal Russian missile strike on the city of Kryvyi Rih and criticised the United States for its hesitant response. The strike, which occurred on Friday, 4 April, devastated a residential area, killing at least 19 people, including nine children, and injuring over 60 others.

According to President Zelenskyy, the missile, believed to be an Iskander ballistic weapon, struck within minutes of launch from the Russian-occupied Taganrog area. The blast tore through homes, a playground, a restaurant, and local shops. Among the victims were three-year-old Tymofiy, seven-year-olds Radyslav and Arina, nine-year-old Herman, and several teenagers aged fifteen to seventeen. Zelenskyy paid tribute to the lives lost and extended condolences to grieving families.

Another 62 people were injured, including 12 children. Many of the wounded remain in hospital with serious injuries, and doctors are working tirelessly to save their lives.

Zelenskyy revealed that the missile was not the only threat. Attack drones were deployed during the aftermath of the strike, targeting civilians and emergency crews. One more person was killed and seven injured in these subsequent drone attacks.

“This is pure hatred,” said Zelenskyy. “There is no deeper cruelty than what Russia continues to show to ordinary people.”

The President expressed gratitude to countries and officials who offered clear and firm support. He named the foreign ministers of the Czech Republic, Finland, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Austria, as well as the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs. Support also came from the embassies of Japan, the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Germany.

However, Zelenskyy was sharply critical of the United States. He singled out the US Embassy in Ukraine for what he described as a feeble response that failed even to name Russia as the perpetrator. “Such a strong country, such a strong nation – and such a weak reaction,” he said. “They are afraid of saying the word Russian when children are being killed by Russian missiles.”

The President stressed the importance of clarity in international responses and the need to hold Russia accountable for its actions. He urged allies to impose more sanctions on Russia and called on Washington and others to supply Ukraine with additional air defence systems, including Patriot surface to air missile units.

Zelenskyy emphasised that only a united and strong international stance can stop the bloodshed and prevent future atrocities. “We must do everything possible to save lives,” he said. “Peace can be achieved only through pressure and action, not silence and delay.”