**Ukraine Demands Russia’s Accountability for Recent Missile Attacks**
In a stark call to action, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has demanded that Russia be held accountable for its actions in the ongoing conflict. This comes after a devastating missile attack on the city of Kryvyi Rih on April 4 killed 19 people, including nine children, and injured 74 others.
The attack was carried out by Russian missiles, which struck a residential area in the city, killing innocent civilians, including children playing near a playground. President Zelensky‘s address to the nation reflected his outrage and frustration with Russia’s actions. “Russian ballistics down a street in an ordinary city, into a residential area, and after that strike, an additional strike with drones. And another person died, and more were injured,” he said.
This attack highlights the devastating consequences of Russia’s continued aggression against Ukraine. Despite previous agreements for a ceasefire, including a partial truce covering energy infrastructure and the Black Sea, the conflict continues to escalate. The Kremlin has blocked the implementation of these agreements, citing demands for sanctions against Russia to be lifted first.
**US Response Criticized**
The response from the US, which had declined to put pressure on Russia to force a ceasefire, was criticized by President Zelensky. Ambassador Bridget Brink’s statement that she was “horrified” by the attack but failed to denounce Russia for its actions was seen as inadequate by Zelensky, who called it “unpleasantly surprising.” This lack of pressure from the US has allowed Russia to continue its aggression against Ukraine.
**Consequences of Inaction**
The continued inaction on the part of the international community, particularly the US, will have severe consequences for Ukraine and its people. The ongoing conflict is causing immense suffering, displacement, and loss of life, with civilians bearing the brunt of Russia’s attacks. It is imperative that world leaders take a firm stance against Russian aggression and demand accountability for these heinous acts.
As President Zelensky so eloquently put it, “We need to put pressure on them there — really put pressure, don’t waste time on empty talk — to end this war.” The international community must come together to demand a ceasefire and bring an end to the suffering of the Ukrainian people. Anything less would be a dereliction of duty.
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