Following a significant Russian aerial bombardment of Kyiv and its environs, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has unequivocally called Russian leader Vladimir Putin a “man of war.” The attack, which claimed civilian lives and left others injured, highlights the escalating nature of the conflict.
Addressing reporters in Halifax, Nova Scotia, alongside Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Zelenskyy drew a clear line between Ukraine’s aspiration for peace and Putin’s alleged wartime agenda. “We want peace,” Zelenskyy asserted, “And he’s a man of war.”
The President’s remarks come as he prepares for a crucial meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida. Zelenskyy intends to present a 20-point peace blueprint during their talks, aimed at fostering a resolution to the protracted war. Trump has previously signaled that he would need to give his consent to any peace accord.
Zelenskyy’s stop in Canada included vital consultations with Prime Minister Carney, as well as leaders from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the European Union. He underscored the importance of maintaining firm resolve both militarily and diplomatically to thwart any efforts by President Putin to derail a just and lasting peace. In a post on the social platform X, Zelenskyy stated, “Strong positions are needed both at the front and in diplomacy to prevent Putin from manipulating and evading a real and just end to the war. The world has sufficient strength to guarantee security and peace.”
The deadly assault saw Russia deploy a massive number of drones and missiles, with Zelenskyy reporting figures exceeding 500 drones and 40 missiles. Kyiv and its surrounding areas, particularly energy facilities and civilian structures, were the main targets. The attack lasted for over ten hours, causing extensive power outages and damaging homes. Rescue teams are working diligently to find survivors, while utility workers stand by to commence repairs on energy infrastructure once air raid alerts cease.