LONDON — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has once again called on the United States to apply more pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging stronger sanctions as Moscow’s invasion enters its third year and long-range drone strikes intensify.
In a pointed Telegram message, Zelenskyy warned, “Russian strikes are becoming increasingly brazen and large-scale every night,” after successive days of Russian assaults involving over 900 drones and missiles.
Putin Framed as Barrier to Peace
“There is no military logic in this, but it is a clear political choice — the choice of Putin, the choice of Russia — the choice to keep waging war and destroying lives,” Zelenskyy said.
He pressed for “new and strong sanctions against Russia — from the United States, from Europe, and from all those around the world who seek peace,” arguing this would pressure Moscow to halt attacks and show genuine diplomatic respect. “For now, [Putin] is simply playing games with diplomacy and diplomats. That must change.”
Stalled Peace Talks and U.S. Frustration
Kyiv has been navigating tense relations with President Donald Trump’s administration, as months of U.S.-brokered peace talks have failed to yield a lasting ceasefire.
Trump, showing signs of mounting frustration, recently called Putin “absolutely crazy” but also criticized Zelenskyy for causing “problems” with public statements.
Kyiv is proposing a 30-day ceasefire window for peace negotiations, but Russia has so far rejected the idea. Putin told Trump last week that Moscow was preparing a formal memorandum outlining its negotiating stance, though Ukraine and European partners accuse the Kremlin of deliberately dragging out the process.
Russia and Ukraine Exchange Drone Strikes
On the ground, both sides continue trading drone attacks. Ukraine’s air force reported it downed 43 out of 60 Russian drones, with impacts confirmed in nine locations. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed its forces intercepted 99 Ukrainian drones over seven regions.
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Unanswered Ukrainian Sanctions Requests
Despite Zelenskyy’s repeated appeals, the Trump administration has yet to impose new sanctions on Russia, even as Trump has publicly threatened to do so. Ukraine hopes tougher measures will push Moscow to scale back maximalist demands, which include annexing Ukrainian territory, demilitarizing the country, and permanently blocking its NATO aspirations.
Zelenskyy remains skeptical of Moscow’s intentions, saying Monday, “They talk a lot about diplomacy. But when, in the midst of all that, there are constant Russian strikes, constant killings, relentless assaults, and even preparations for new offensives,” trust is hard to build.
As the situation escalates, international eyes remain on Washington to see if stronger action will follow.
