Zelenskyy says Russia “does not deserve” sanctions relief after deadly overnight strikes in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said that Russia “does not deserve” any easing of international sanctions, following a series of deadly overnight missile and drone strikes across Ukraine.

In a statement, Zelenskyy condemned the latest attacks, saying they caused significant civilian casualties and further damage to critical infrastructure. He argued that discussions about lifting or easing sanctions would be inappropriate while the war continues and attacks on Ukrainian cities persist.

Ukrainian officials reported that multiple regions were targeted in the overnight strikes, with emergency services responding to fires, power outages, and damaged residential areas. Casualty figures are still being assessed as rescue operations continue.

Zelenskyy urged Ukraine’s international partners to maintain and strengthen sanctions pressure on Moscow, stating that sustained economic measures are necessary to deter further aggression and push for a resolution to the conflict.

The remarks come amid ongoing global debates over sanctions policy and diplomatic efforts to find a path toward ending the war, now in its prolonged phase with continued hostilities on multiple fronts.