Kyiv, Ukraine | December 23, 2025
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has claimed that Russia significantly intensified its military offensive over the past week, launching around 1,300 attack drones, nearly 1,200 guided aerial bombs, and nine missiles against Ukraine.
In a post on social media platform X, Zelenskyy said the attacks caused widespread disruption to civilian life, with the southern regions of Ukraine, including the Odesa region, bearing the brunt of the bombardment.
🚁 Southern Ukraine, Odesa Among Worst Hit
According to Ukrainian officials, Russian strikes have severely impacted civilian infrastructure in the south. Zelenskyy said Ukraine’s emergency services are working continuously to restore normalcy despite ongoing attacks.
Local authorities reported that Russian strikes late Friday night in the Odesa region killed at least eight people and injured 27 others. Emergency responders said a port area was hit by a missile, causing extensive damage and disrupting power supply in parts of the region.
⚠️ Civilian Impact and Emergency Response
Zelenskyy emphasized that repeated drone and missile strikes are directly affecting civilians, but praised Ukraine’s emergency services for their rapid response in rescue, repair, and evacuation efforts.
“The attacks continue, but our services are doing everything possible to save lives and stabilize the situation,” he said.
🤝 International Support for Ukraine
The Ukrainian president also highlighted continued international backing for Kyiv amid the escalating conflict.
The European Council has approved €90 billion in financial assistance for 2026–27
Norway and Japan have announced additional aid packages
Ukraine and Portugal have signed an agreement for joint production of maritime drones
Zelenskyy said these measures are crucial to strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities and resilience.
🕊️ Peace Talks and Diplomatic Efforts
Zelenskyy confirmed that talks between Ukraine and the United States aimed at ending the war are ongoing. He stressed that stronger pressure and tougher sanctions on Russia are essential to push Moscow toward diplomacy and a just peace.
Meanwhile, Russia has indicated that discussions with the United States are proceeding in a “constructive atmosphere,” though the situation on the ground remains highly volatile.
📌 ‘War Benefits No One’
Concluding his remarks, Zelenskyy said war ultimately harms all sides and warned that aggression carries long-term consequences.
“War is never beneficial for anyone. Aggression eventually comes back to those who start it,” he said, reiterating Ukraine’s call for enhanced international cooperation and stronger defense preparedness.
