Zelenskyy Briefs G7 on Russian Offensive, Sanctions, and Support for Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, speaking at a special meeting of G7 leaders, urged increased pressure on Russia following the largest missile attack on Ukrainian cities since the start of the full-scale invasion. He called for expanded sanctions, stronger air defense systems, the localization of weapons production in Ukraine, and decisive action from the United States and its allies to stop the aggressor and restore peace.

This was reported by the press service of the President’s Office.

Massive Attack on Ukraine: Dead, Injured, and Widespread Destruction

During his speech at a special meeting of G7 leaders, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported on one of the largest Russian attacks since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

According to Zelenskyy, the night before the summit, Ukraine was subjected to a massive combined assault involving 440 kamikaze drones (mostly Shahed) and 32 missiles, including ballistic and cluster munitions.

“One of the missiles tore through a high-rise building — from the roof to the basement. Rescue operations are still underway,” the President emphasized.

The strike in Kyiv claimed the lives of at least 15 people, including a U.S. citizen, and injured 131 others. Over 150 residential buildings were damaged or destroyed in the capital alone.

Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to the countries providing air defense systems, noting that a significant number of incoming targets were successfully intercepted thanks to their support.

Air Defense, Interceptor Drones, and Production Localization

President Zelenskyy emphasized that strengthening air defense remains a top priority. He called for the localization of air defense production in Ukraine, stressing that it is no longer a luxury but an urgent necessity.

He also highlighted the growing threat posed by Russia’s collaboration with Iran and North Korea, which has enabled the modernization of Shahed drones and the transfer of technology for their production.

“These drones threaten not only our cities but yours as well. We need investment in interceptors — we are actively working on their development,” Zelenskyy told the G7 leaders.

Sanctions and Oil Restrictions

President Zelenskyy urged Western partners to introduce a new level of sanctions, particularly targeting Russia’s energy and banking sectors. He emphasized that the current price cap on Russian oil — $45 per barrel — is ineffective.

“We must make this truly painful for Russia. The real price cap should be $30,” the President stated.

He also underscored the urgency of adopting the EU’s 18th sanctions package, which should further restrict the aggressor’s financial and energy capabilities.

Global Security and U.S. Support

Addressing the international community, Zelenskyy stressed that diplomacy is no longer effective because President Putin continues to ignore it. He warned that Russia is escalating its aggression without fear of consequences and noted a shift in the security landscape following changes in U.S. policy.

“If last year, 100 Shaheds caused shock, now it seems unusual if they launch fewer than a hundred. Russia has adapted,” he said.

Zelenskyy also called on the G7 to endorse the initiative for $40 billion in annual budgetary assistance to Ukraine, which he described as vital for maintaining the country’s economic stability.

Call to Donald Trump

President Zelenskyy also referenced U.S. President Donald Trump’s initiatives aimed at establishing a ceasefire and resuming negotiations but noted that Russia is obstructing all such efforts.

“Together, we must continue urging President Trump to use his real influence to compel Putin to end this war,” Zelenskyy stated.

He emphasized that Russia deliberately initiated this war by rejecting all diplomatic solutions and must therefore face intensified pressure on every front.

Recall that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, during the G7 summit before meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, announced a new defense assistance package for Ukraine worth over 2 billion Canadian dollars (approximately 1.5 billion US dollars), as well as a large-scale expansion of sanctions against the Russian Federation.

Earlier, US President Donald Trump said at the G7 summit in Alberta, Canada, that he would not rush to impose new sanctions against Russia. The main reason is the high economic costs for the United States.

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