“Terror and Barbarism”: Global Leaders React After Russian Strikes Kill Civilians, Damage EU Mission

Global leaders reacted strongly to Russia’s massive overnight missile and drone strikes. At least 18 people, including three children aged 2, 14, and 17, were killed and 48 were injured in Kyiv, Ukrainian officials said. The attack also damaged EU mission and British Council buildings.

President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen:

“I’m outraged by the missile and drone attack on Kyiv, killing men, women and children. And damaging our EU diplomatic mission. My thoughts go to our brave staff. Russia’s strikes on Kyiv will only strengthen Europe’s unity and Ukraine’s defiance.”

Ursula has also emphasized that a new package of “tough sanctions” against Russia will be unveiled soon. She noted ongoing work to use frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction, according to DW.

The 19th sanctions package was announced several weeks ago, but diplomats say Russia’s recent attacks could accelerate efforts and lead to stronger measures. EU foreign ministers are set to discuss the new restrictions at their meeting in Copenhagen on August 30.

The President of the European Commission also spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump following the strike on Kyiv, she said in a post on X.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer:

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer denounced the attacks as an assault on civilians, saying, “Putin is killing children and civilians and sabotaging hopes for peace. This bloodshed must end.”

French President Emmanuel Macron:

French President Emmanuel Macron described the strikes as “629 missiles and drones in a single night over Ukraine: this is Russia’s idea of peace. Terror and barbarism,” highlighting that residential areas and civilian infrastructure were deliberately targeted.

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Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot:

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot emphasized that Russia continues to prioritize “terror, destruction, and lies over dialogue.”

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares:

Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares condemned the attacks as violations of international law. “Russia again responds to peaceful efforts with attacks on civilian infrastructure and diplomatic missions in Ukraine. We firmly condemn these violations of international law.”

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski:

Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski similarly criticized the assault, noting that Russian missiles had killed civilians and damaged the EU delegation building. “Putin’s missiles killed Ukrainian civilians and damaged the EU delegation building… This is how Russia fights for peace.”

Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset:

Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset said the attacks make peace “feel more distant” and reaffirmed support for Ukraine, noting the organization’s commitment to the country’s recovery.

Previously, Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged the international community, including members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), to respond firmly to Russia’s large-scale missile and drone attack.

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