Zelensky Urges Tougher Sanctions After Deadly Russian Strikes Kill 31

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has renewed his call for tougher international sanctions against Russia following a devastating missile and drone attack on Kyiv that killed at least 31 people, including five children—the youngest just two years old. Another 159 individuals were wounded, among them 16 children.

“Sanctions do work despite what the Kremlin claims,” Zelensky said. “They must not only be maintained but significantly strengthened.”

The capital city observed a day of mourning on Friday after Thursday’s attack left a trail of destruction, collapsing a residential building and damaging a hospital, a school, a nursery, and a university.

Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched over 300 drones and eight cruise missiles in what was one of the deadliest assaults on Kyiv since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

U.S. President Donald Trump strongly condemned Russia’s actions, calling them “disgusting,” and signaled that additional sanctions against Moscow could soon follow.

Speaking to reporters, Trump stated: “Russia, I think it’s disgusting what they’re doing.” In July, he warned that President Vladimir Putin had 50 days to end the war or face sweeping tariffs, particularly targeting Russia’s oil exports. This week, he shortened that deadline, now set to expire on August 8.

At the UN Security Council on Thursday, senior U.S. diplomat John Kelley urged both Russia and Ukraine to pursue a ceasefire and work toward a lasting peace. “It is time to make a deal,” he said.

Ukrainian officials reported receiving “positive signals” from Washington about the possibility of new sanctions, especially targeting Russia’s energy sector and secondary markets.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha praised Trump’s “generosity and patience” but emphasized that “now is the time to apply maximum pressure on Moscow.”

Meanwhile, Germany has pledged to deliver two additional U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine in the coming days.

President Zelensky revealed that in July alone, Russia launched over 5,100 glide bombs, 3,800 Shahed drones, and 260 missiles—including 128 ballistic missiles.

Every single day counts, Zelensky said. This terror can only be stopped through united efforts from America, Europe, and all responsible global partners.