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European Leaders Condemn Russia’s Cold-Blooded Attack on Ukrainian Civilians

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Amira Barkhush
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European Leaders Condemn Russia’s Cold-Blooded Attack on Ukrainian Civilians
Family members of those still missing under the debris are at the site of a residential building hit by a Russian ballistic missile during a massive overnight attack in Kyiv, Ukraine, on June 17, 2025. (Source: Getty Images)

European leaders have condemned Russia’s overnight missile strikes on Ukrainian cities on June 17, which killed at least 16 civilians and injured over 150, and urged tougher measures to hold Moscow accountable.

Norway

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide described the strikes as “massive and brutal,” saying they killed and injured civilians across Ukraine, especially in Kyiv.

Estonia

Estonian Foreign Minister, Margus Tsahkna, called the attack one of Russia’s “most brutal” on the Ukrainian capital so far and said more pressure must be applied to force Moscow to stop.

Moldova

Moldovan President Maia Sandu also condemned the assault, describing it as “cold-blooded, systematic violence.”

“Another night of Russian terror on Kyiv. Civilians murdered, homes reduced to rubble. This is cold-blooded, systematic violence. Moldova strongly condemns this brutality. Ukraine needs more air defence and decisive action—now. Every delay empowers the aggressor,” Sandu said.

The Netherlands

Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans underscored that the Netherlands will continue supporting Ukraine despite global attention being focused on the Middle East.

“With all eyes understandably focused on the Middle East, Putin continues his brutal aggression in Ukraine. Tonight another heavy attack on Kyiv. But this does not go unnoticed. We continue tirelessly to support Ukraine and strengthen Defense,” Brekelmans said.

France

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has called on Russian leader Vladimir Putin to focus on ending the war in Ukraine before attempting to position Russia as a peacemaker in the Middle East.

“A deadly attack in Ukraine by Vladimir Putin’s regime, whose cruelty and cynicism have no limits. To the Kremlin that wants to make peace in the Middle East: start with Ukraine, ‘ Barrot wrote on X.

Lithuania

Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys called for immediate adoption of the European Union’s 18th sanctions package, targeting Russia’s energy and financial sectors.

“The 18th EU sanctions package must be adopted now. It must strike at the heart of Russia’s war economy – energy and finance – which fuels its aggression,” Budrys said.

Croatia

Croatian Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman denounced the strikes on civilian infrastructure, including a children’s hospital, kindergarten, student dormitory and residential buildings.

“Striking the most vulnerable is a shocking breach of humanity and international norms,” he wrote.

Additionally, Megan Mobbs, the daughter of Keith Kellogg, the US presidential representative on Ukraine and Russia, has responded to the massive missile and drone attack on Kyiv.

Earlier, the First Lady of Ukraine, Olena Zelenska, stated that Ukraine is waiting for a clear response from international partners to Russia’s massive strikes, which killed at least 16 civilians and injured over 150.

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