Zelenskyy: Russia fires 16 ballistic missiles at Ukraine

On October 19, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched 16 ballistic missiles at Ukraine without warning from any partners. The attack targeted Kyiv and the surrounding region. In addition to the missiles, Russia deployed over 200 drones, including the Shahed type, across the Kharkiv, Dnipro, Volyn, Rivne, and Odesa regions.

President Zelenskyy confirmed that the Russian strikes resulted in casualties and damaged more than 10 energy infrastructure facilities, leaving at least 550,000 households without power.

Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine's desire for peace and their positive response to every ceasefire proposal. However, he criticized Russia's continued refusal to de-escalate the situation, stating that the aggressor is not interested in ending the war or making any concessions. He emphasized the need for accurate terminology, calling Russia the aggressor and urging partners to support Ukraine's efforts to protect lives.

The President also criticized partners for blocking the supply of missiles for Ukraine's air defense systems while Russia receives sanctions relief or delays. Zelenskyy asserted that the war continues solely due to Russian strikes and Russia's intent to prolong the conflict.