Strike on Moscow Refinery 15 km from Kremlin Called 'Just Response' by Zelensky.

Ukraine's Reaction to the Moscow Attack

According to Novyny.live: In the early hours of June 18, a strike targeted Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by calling it a fully justified retaliation for Russian aggression. He stressed that Ukraine has no choice but to fight back as long as Russia continues its offensive.

“If Putin does not want to end this war, if he wants to keep it going, we will not sit quietly—we will respond,” Zelensky stated.

The attack hit the Moscow Oil Refinery in Kapotnya, a facility located just 15 kilometers from the Kremlin. This operation followed a Russian strike on the Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery on June 15. Zelensky referenced these events and urged the international community to increase pressure on Russia, saying, “It is necessary to intensify pressure on Russia.”

Ukraine's Stance and Global Support

The Ukrainian leader also emphasized that his country never sought this war. “We do not want this war and never did,” he said, underscoring the need to bring an end to the aggression. “It is time to end the aggression, time to end this war,” Zelensky declared. He noted that Ukraine fully supports a resolution, adding that achieving peace requires “not only long-range sanctions from Ukraine but also sanctions from our partners.”

Meanwhile, Russia has imposed strict restrictions on fuel sales, highlighting the conflict’s severe impact. In light of these developments, Ukraine’s position remains clear: the country is prepared to take active measures in response to aggression and calls on the international community to back its efforts.

This escalation underscores the ongoing tension between Ukraine and Russia, with potential consequences not only for both nations but also for global security. Zelensky’s insistence on retaliating against Russian strikes reinforces Ukraine’s determination to defend its interests, while his appeal for international action could shape the region’s future trajectory.