Zelensky criticizes US Embassy’s “Weak” response after deadly Russian missile strikes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has strongly criticized the US embassy in Ukraine for what he called a “disappointingly weak” response following a brutal Russian missile attack that killed 18 people — including nine children — in his hometown of Kryvyi Rih.

Taking to social media platform X, Zelensky posted graphic footage from the site of the attack, which also left 62 people injured. The strikes, carried out using ballistic missiles, hit a residential area late Friday, sparking widespread condemnation from global leaders.

Zelensky expressed gratitude to embassies from countries like the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, and Switzerland for their clear and firm statements denouncing the attack. However, he singled out the US embassy for failing to explicitly name Russia as the aggressor.

“Unfortunately, the response from the U.S. Embassy is surprisingly disappointing — such a strong country, such a strong people, and yet such a weak reaction. They are afraid to even say the word 'Russian' when speaking about the missile that murdered children,” Zelensky wrote.

He emphasized the need for clarity and courage in international messaging, adding, “Yes, the war must end. But to end it, we must not be afraid to call things by their names. We must not be afraid to put pressure on the one who continues this war… We must pressure Russia – the one choosing to kill children instead of choosing a ceasefire.”

US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink had earlier posted about the incident, writing, “Horrified that tonight a ballistic missile struck near a playground and restaurant in Kryvyi Rih. More than 50 people were injured and 16 killed, including 6 children. This is why the war must end.” Notably, she did not mention Russia in her statement.

Zelensky’s frustration comes amid growing tension between Kyiv and Washington, especially since Donald Trump returned to the US presidency. Ambassador Brink, who has served in Ukraine since May 2022, has notably refrained from directly naming Russia in several recent posts.

Calling for tougher measures, Zelensky urged the international community to impose more sanctions on Moscow and continue supplying defensive weapons systems like the Patriot missile defense. “We count on our agreements with the President of the United States, who promised to help find more Patriots. And we count on the strength of the world to overcome this evil – this war, this Russian aggression,” he concluded.