European officials have criticized Vladimir Putin for obstructing peace discussions following Russian missile attacks on Kyiv this week, which resulted in at least 23 deaths and damaged diplomatic facilities, including offices linked to EU and British representatives.
A day of remembrance was held in Kyiv on Friday after the aerial assault the previous day, which claimed the lives of 23 individuals, among them at least four children. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that eight people remained unaccounted for, while 53 others were wounded. "When Russia opts for missiles over diplomacy... the global community must act decisively," he said, calling for stronger measures from Western partners.
Separately, Zelenskyy reported a gathering of approximately 100,000 Russian troops near the eastern Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk. "There is a noticeable buildup of enemy forces in that area. They are preparing for offensive operations," he added.
Kaja Kallas, Europe’s top diplomat, condemned the strikes on Kyiv, accusing Russia of violating international law and sabotaging peace initiatives. "Deliberate attacks on civilians and non-military targets are acts of war," Kallas said. "These actions only strengthen our commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense and its quest for a fair and enduring peace."
All EU member states except Hungary, led by Putin ally Viktor Orbán, backed the statement. Orbán has repeatedly criticized Ukraine and attempted to obstruct EU assistance to the country.
The recent strikes on Kyiv were the deadliest since Donald Trump met Putin in Alaska for an inconclusive summit, during which the former U.S. president welcomed the Russian leader, who faces accusations of war crimes.
Trump has expressed interest in facilitating direct talks between Putin and Zelenskyy. While Ukraine’s leader has signaled willingness, the Kremlin has not agreed.
French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that Putin would manipulate Trump if he avoided meeting Zelenskyy. During Macron’s discussions with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in southern France, both nations promised to enhance air defense support for Ukraine.
In a joint declaration, leading EU nations stated: "Despite extensive diplomatic efforts, Russia shows no signs of ending its aggression against Ukraine."
Kallas remarked that the latest attacks demonstrated Putin’s disregard for peace efforts. "This underscores the need to intensify pressure on Russia—the only language they understand," she said.
After the deadly strike early Thursday, the EU pledged additional sanctions—its 19th since the 2022 invasion—along with increased military assistance for Ukraine and discussions on confiscating €210 billion in frozen Russian assets within the bloc.
Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė noted dwindling optimism for peace talks.
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