Zelensky Says Russian Strikes Followed Sanctions Relief
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russian forces struck apartment blocks in Zaporizhzhia after diesel export sanctions were relaxed. He said the attack killed twelve people, among them three children, and left fourteen injured, two critically. Zelensky added that thirteen regions were targeted overnight and said Moscow treats any easing of pressure as a green light to keep fighting.
Zelensky linked the Zaporizhzhia bombardment to a decision easing restrictions on diesel shipments abroad. He reported five guided aerial munitions hit housing. Rescue crews were working at the site, with a dozen additional individuals unaccounted for. Overnight, attacks affected 13 regions, damaging homes, infrastructure and rail assets.
He said two of the wounded were critically hurt and that physicians were working to preserve their lives. He argued Moscow reads reduced pressure as permission to continue combat and said Ukraine would respond using weapons able to reach far.
The reported deaths and injuries may deepen grief and insecurity in Zaporizhzhia and across affected regions, where families, rescue workers, and rail and utility users could face disruption. If sanctions relief is perceived as enabling further strikes, public debate in Ukraine and among allies may sharpen over pressure policy, while humanitarian needs and displacement risks may rise.