Russian strikes across Ukraine killed 78 people and injured 215 over two days, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Thursday, October 8, as he criticized Washington for failing to provide greater military assistance.
The latest attacks included a deadly strike on Kramatorsk, where local authorities reported 35 deaths, according to Reuters.
Zelenskyy accused the United States of pursuing economic cooperation with Russia while attempting to negotiate an end to the war.
Russian Strikes Kill Dozens Across Ukraine
A Russian guided aerial bomb struck Kramatorsk in eastern Ukraine on Thursday, hitting two buses and causing numerous casualties.
Authorities reported 35 deaths in the city following the initial attack and a subsequent drone strike.
Another 20 people were wounded in the bombing.
The violence followed a major Russian missile and drone assault on Wednesday that killed dozens across Ukraine.
In Pryluky, in the Chernihiv region, 22 people died when a Russian missile struck a residential building.
Kyiv also came under attack, with Mayor Vitali Klitschko reporting four deaths and 19 injuries.
The strikes disrupted electricity and water supplies as Ukrainian authorities worked to restore essential services.
Zelenskyy Calls for Stronger US Support
Speaking during a visit to Pryluky, Zelenskyy urged Washington to expand Ukraine’s access to the Starlink satellite service to strengthen its ability to counter Russian missile attacks.
He argued that additional technological support could help Ukraine target missile launchers and improve its defensive capabilities.
His criticism followed remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who described the war as a dangerous stalemate.
Zelenskyy questioned that assessment, arguing that continued discussions about economic cooperation with Moscow contradicted efforts to secure peace.
Reuters also reported that US and Russian officials had discussed possible American investment in the Nord Stream gas pipelines.
The Ukrainian president said Kyiv would send negotiators to the United States on October 9 and 10 for discussions on air defenses and further pressure on Russia.
He also called on President Donald Trump to increase sanctions against Moscow.
The latest escalation comes as Russia continues its missile and drone campaign against Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure ahead of winter.
