Odesa Hit: Ukraine Vows Tougher Sanctions

Odesa Attacked: Civilians Die in Russian Strikes

Russian forces launched overnight strikes on Odesa, hitting energy infrastructure and residential buildings. While air defenses intercepted most of the missiles, some struck their targets. The attack resulted in the deaths of three people, including a young child, and injured 18 others. Emergency services provided immediate aid to all affected individuals.

President Zelenskyy expressed his condolences to the victims’ families, stating that Russia shows no regard for special times like Easter. He emphasized that Russia can afford to finance the war and will not seek peace on its own. This situation, he argued, demands continued international pressure on the aggressor.

Economic Pressure Key to Peace, Kyiv Argues

Ukraine believes that significant financial losses are the only way to force Russia to consider ending the war. President Zelenskyy highlighted that Ukrainian long-range drones and missiles are effectively reducing Russian revenues, particularly from oil sales. This action, he stated, directly limits Russia’s capacity to sustain its military operations.

The President explained that while global oil markets are currently experiencing a crisis, partly due to the situation around Iran, oil-producing nations like Russia can profit more. However, Ukraine’s actions aim to curb this advantage. He thanked soldiers for their precision in these deep strikes and noted ongoing discussions with military commanders about future operations.

Sanctions and Diplomacy: Ukraine’s Strategy

Kyiv is working with international partners to maintain pressure through sanctions and restrictions on modern equipment supplied to Russia. Zelenskyy stressed that any revenue Russia earns from high oil prices is redirected to the war effort. Therefore, measures that limit Russia’s oil export capacity are seen as fully justified.

Ukraine has proposed a mirrored response to Russia if it agrees to cease attacks on Ukraine’s energy sector. This proposal has been shared with the United States, and detailed discussions are underway. Ukraine is also preparing its own proposals to strengthen security guarantees, which are considered crucial for a lasting peace and building confidence in the peace process.

Global Partnerships Expand Beyond Russia

Beyond the conflict with Russia, Ukraine is actively strengthening its diplomatic and security ties globally. The country is finalizing agreements from recent high-level visits, including those with Turkey. Cooperation with Turkey is deemed vital for Ukraine’s energy and logistical security.

President Zelenskyy described his recent meeting with Turkish President Erdogan as one of the most positive in years. Ukraine is also enhancing its engagement with Syria to bolster cooperation. Furthermore, Ukraine is expanding its presence and partnerships in the Middle East and the Gulf region. Agreements are already in place with Saudi Arabia, the Emirates, Qatar, and Jordan, with interest shown by Bahrain and Oman.

Ukraine’s Growing Role in Global Security

Ukraine positions itself as a desirable and strong partner in the Middle East, a significant shift from its past. The nation was among the first to support the region during attacks from Iran and backed Syria following the overthrow of its regime. Kyiv advocates for the dignity of the Iranian people and promotes a dignified peace globally.

The ultimate goal is stability and peace not only in Europe but also in the Middle East, the Gulf, and other critical regions. This, Ukraine believes, will help avert global crises such as destabilized markets, destroyed energy sectors, disrupted shipping, nuclear threats, and food insecurity. Ukraine is ready to cooperate with all nations that support its sovereignty, independence, and respect its people, aiming to forge new security agreements that will strengthen the country.

“We have repeatedly proposed to Russia to cease fire at least on Easter at this special time of the year. But for them, all times are the same. Nothing is sacred to them.” – President Zelenskyy

Source: 💥Zelenskyy ADDRESSED Ukrainians after a TERRIBLE strike on Odesa. Listen to what he said (YouTube)