Kyiv, Sep 21 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the necessity for a robust response against Russia on Sunday, advocating for sanctions and enhancing long-range strike capabilities for Kyiv.

In a post shared on X, Zelensky revealed that this week, Russia executed over 1,500 strike drone attacks, deployed 1,280 guided aerial bombs, and launched 50 missiles of various types against Ukraine.

He highlighted the discovery of thousands of foreign components in these weapons, tallying over 132,000 items sourced from numerous countries, including Europe, the US, China, Japan, and others.

He cautioned that if Moscow is not curtailed, it will pose a threat to nations across Europe and the Indo-Pacific.

"Russia must experience the repercussions of its actions. A sufficient counteraction is essential to compel them towards peace. This can be realized through the formidable strength of our armed forces, our long-range strike capabilities, and substantial sanctions and pressure against Russia. Currently, we are under near-constant assault from Russian forces, facing over 1,500 strike drones, more than 1,280 guided aerial bombs, and 50 missiles in just this week alone. Thousands of foreign components have been detected in this weaponry—over 132,000 items—from various nations: Europe, the US, China, Japan, and many others," Zelensky stated on X.

"These technologies enable Russia to manufacture weapons en masse, all aimed at terrorizing our population. If Russia remains unchecked, it will undoubtedly threaten countries in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. Strong sanctions are a crucial tool that can help halt this aggression. We must sever all potential supply routes and means of dodging sanctions, while applying pressure on nations and individual companies that assist them. Our partners possess the capability—the power necessary to protect lives. We anticipate that the 19th EU sanctions package will deliver a significant blow, and we look forward to the US joining with Europe. I express my gratitude to all who are currently providing assistance," he continued.

On September 19, the European Union suggested that member states implement the 19th package of sanctions against Russia.

EU Vice-President Kaja Kallas advocated for a complete transaction ban on Russian banks and financial institutions, including those based in third countries.

Kallas stated, "We proposed to Member States the 19th package of sanctions against Russia. This package targets essential sectors that support Russia's war efforts. Our sanctions are effective, visibly impacting Russia's public finances and economic growth. The European Union must bolster these efforts collectively with its allies until peace is restored."

"Any revenue source for the Kremlin to sustain its aggression is a target. Today, we propose a comprehensive transaction ban on Russian banks and financial institutions, including those operating in third countries. We also propose to include significant economic players involved in evading sanctions, generating revenue, and supporting the Russian military industry, in addition to the Russian credit card system and rapid payment systems. Furthermore, we propose a ban on investments in Russian Special Economic Zones associated with the war, along with additional measures targeting Chinese actors aiding Russia's military industry," she added.

Kallas called for a complete ban on Russian LNG imports by January 2027, the removal of remaining exemptions on Rosneft and Gazprom Neft, and sanctions against Russia's shadow fleet and its enablers, encompassing 118 new vessels.