Zelenskyy cancels part of his visit to South Africa and returns to Ukraine after a massive Russian attack
Kyiv • UNN
The President is cancelling part of his visit to South Africa due to the night-time Russian attack. He instructed Umerov to contact partners regarding air defense systems and will inform Ramaphosa about the situation.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted to the night massive combined attack by the Russian Federation on Ukraine, pointing out that it has been 44 days since Ukraine agreed to a complete ceasefire, but Russia continues to kill and avoid severe pressure. The President instructed Defense Minister Rustem Umerov to contact partners regarding requests for air defense, and he himself is canceling part of his visit to South Africa and returning to Ukraine, writes UNN.
Forty-four days since Ukraine agreed to a complete ceasefire and strikes. This was a proposal from the United States. Forty-four days since Russia continues to kill people and avoid severe pressure and responsibility for it. It is very important that everyone in the world sees and understands what is really happening. Approximately 70 missiles, including ballistic ones. And almost 150 strike drones
The President stated that "unfortunately, there is a lot of destruction." "Rescue operations are ongoing, and the rubble of buildings is being cleared. As of now, more than 80 people have been injured across Ukraine. Everyone is being provided with assistance. Unfortunately, 9 people have died in Kyiv. My condolences to their families and loved ones," the Head of State noted.
There was a report from the military command. I instructed the Minister of Defense of Ukraine to immediately contact partners regarding our requests to strengthen air defense
"Today I will inform the President of South Africa, Ramaphosa, who chairs the "Group of Twenty", about the situation and our need to intensify global diplomatic efforts. The cessation of strikes is needed immediately and unconditionally. We also count on assistance in humanitarian issues – in returning our prisoners and Ukrainian children abducted by Russia," the President noted.
I am canceling part of the program of this visit and, after meeting with the President of South Africa, I am immediately returning to Ukraine
"The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine will hold all necessary meetings in South Africa to fully inform the political and public leaders of the country about the situation," he added.
The Head of State expressed gratitude "to everyone in the world who supports Ukraine and our people".