Kyiv [Ukraine]: Following a brutal Russian offensive involving the launch of 70 missiles against Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged for stronger and “more tangible” international pressure on Russia to open up possibilities for real diplomacy and a pathway to ending the ongoing war.
Situation on the Frontlines
Providing a battlefield update, Zelenskyy shared that Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reported that in just the first half of the day, there had already been nearly 70 Russian assaults.
“The situation remains difficult in many directions,” Zelenskyy noted, citing intense fighting particularly in the Pokrovsk, Kramatorsk, Lyman, and Kursk directions.
Ukrainian Forces Display Unyielding Resilience
Zelenskyy praised the bravery and resilience of Ukrainian brigades actively defending their positions:
- Special mention was given to the 3rd Operational Brigade of the National Guard, performing exceptionally in Pokrovsk.
- The 59th Separate Assault Brigade of the Unmanned Systems Forces was recognized for its outstanding combat performance.
- The efforts of the 225th and 425th Separate Assault Regiments, the 47th Separate Mechanised Brigade, and the 95th Separate Air Assault Brigade were also lauded.
“Our warriors are demonstrating the resilience our country so urgently needs,” Zelenskyy emphasized.
Diplomatic Stalemate: Ceasefire Ignored
Zelenskyy highlighted that Russia has ignored the U.S. proposal for a full and unconditional ceasefire—an offer Ukraine accepted on March 11.
“Nearly fifty days have passed since Russia disregarded the United States’ ceasefire proposal,” Zelenskyy said.
He stressed that the current global pressure on Russia is insufficient to end the war, calling for a stronger international response to force real diplomatic engagement.
Global Solidarity with Ukraine
Closing his address, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude:
“I thank everyone in the world who stands with Ukraine.”