Zelensky reacts to Russian plane tragedy: Demands truth amidst calls for international probe
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is grappling with the aftermath of the recent incident involving the downing of a Russian Il-76 aircraft near Belgorod.
Moscow claims the plane was carrying 65 Ukrainian prisoners of war, but Zelensky, while engaging with relevant authorities, is yet to provide a definitive response. He assured his compatriots that every effort is being made to uncover the truth and has called for an international investigation into the matter, reported by News.ro.
Acknowledging the 700th day since Russia initiated its aggression against Ukraine, Zelensky admitted, "The 700th day of this war is an exceedingly challenging one."
Zelensky stated that he personally reached out to Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Army Commander Valeri Zalujni, Chief of the General Staff Serhii Shaptala, as well as the heads of intelligence services, Kirilo Budanov (GUR) and Vasik Maliuk (SBU), to receive updates on the situation concerning the plane and the prisoner exchange.
On Wednesday, Russia accused Ukraine of intentionally downing the military aircraft, denouncing it as an act of terrorism resulting in numerous casualties. However, the Ukrainian army's intelligence service confirmed plans for a prisoner exchange, which the Russian side purportedly cancelled.
Initially, Ukrainian publication Ukrainska Pravda reported Kiev's involvement in downing the aircraft, alleging it was carrying S-300 missiles. However, this claim was later retracted due to lack of confirmation.
Moscow accused Kiev of sabotaging the prisoner exchange by deliberately downing the plane.
Zelensky condemned Russia's actions, stating, "It's evident that the Russians are playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners, their families' emotions, and our society's sentiments." He emphasised the need for a thorough investigation given the plane crashed on Russian territory.
He added, "Ukraine's Defense Intelligence Service is actively working to ascertain the fate of all prisoners. The Security Service of Ukraine is investigating all circumstances. Our country will insist on an international investigation."
Regarding the frontline situation, Zelensky assured, "We're prioritising the defence of critical sectors such as Avdiivka and others in the Donetsk region and the Kupyansk direction. We're committed to bolstering our soldiers' defences."
Zelensky also discussed ongoing collaborations with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, expressing gratitude for Germany's contributions to Ukraine's defence efforts.
"Ukraine has endured 700 days of relentless conflict. We have survived, and we must continue to defend our people and our nation," Zelensky concluded.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
