Zelenskyy: Putin’s Words Don’t Match His Actions as Russia Launches Drones on Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure

Russia’s actions do not match its statements, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on March 19 during a joint conference with Finnish President Alexander Stubb in Helsinki.

Zelenskyy noted that even after Putin’s conversation with US President Donald Trump, during which he claimed to order a halt to strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, reality tells a different story.

“Overnight, 150 drones were launched, attacking, among other things, energy facilities, transportation, and, tragically, two hospitals. Civilian infrastructure also suffered heavy damage,” Zelenskyy stated.

He added that Ukraine requires support in order to be able to pressure Russia into peace.

“Putin’s words do not align at all with his actions. This is precisely why we need continued defensive support, enhanced air defense systems, and increased pressure on Russia to ensure safety and save the lives of innocent people,” Zelenskyy added.

On March 18, Trump and Putin held a phone conversation regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, where the Kremlin demanded a complete halt to foreign military aid and intelligence support to Ukraine, describing it as a key condition for avoiding further escalation of the war.