Zelenskiy Criticizes US as Russian Strikes Kill 78 in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accused the United States of failing to provide sufficient support after Russian airstrikes killed 78 people and injured 215 across Ukraine over two days, intensifying tensions over Washington’s approach to ending the war.

The criticism followed a devastating Russian bomb attack on Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine on Thursday, which struck two passenger buses, killing at least 30 people and wounding 18 others.

The attack came a day after Russian missiles and drones hit multiple Ukrainian cities, including Pryluky, where 22 people died when a residential building was struck.

Speaking in Pryluky, Zelenskiy urged Washington to expand Ukraine’s access to Starlink satellite technology to strengthen its ability to locate and target Russian ballistic missile launchers.

"Open Starlink for Ukraine. You did open it when you were responding to Iran," Zelenskiy said, arguing that stronger military assistance could pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin into peace negotiations.

The Ukrainian leader also challenged US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s description of the Russia-Ukraine war as a stalemate, accusing Washington of prioritizing potential economic cooperation with Moscow over Ukraine’s security needs.

"That's called unwillingness," Zelenskiy said, questioning US diplomatic efforts while discussions about future business opportunities with Russia continue.

According to Reuters, senior American and Russian officials, including US Special Envoy Jared Kushner, have discussed potential US investment in the Nord Stream gas pipelines, which previously transported Russian natural gas to Germany.

Zelenskiy called on President Donald Trump to impose tougher sanctions against Moscow as Ukrainian negotiators prepare to visit the United States on Friday and Saturday for further diplomatic discussions.

Meanwhile, Russian attacks continued across Ukraine. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that strikes on the capital Thursday killed three people and injured 14 others.

Donetsk regional governor Vadym Filashkin accused Russian forces of deliberately targeting civilians in Kramatorsk. Moscow has repeatedly denied intentionally attacking civilian populations.

Russia has intensified drone and missile operations against Ukrainian infrastructure, including energy facilities, warehouses and data centers, raising concerns about electricity supplies ahead of winter.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the escalating attacks, warning that Moscow was increasingly targeting civilian life rather than pursuing a negotiated settlement.

The latest violence underscores the challenges facing US-led peace efforts as Ukraine seeks additional military assistance and stronger international pressure on Russia.