The head of state said this in his nightly video address, Ukrinform reports.

"An absolute Russian atrocity. They're just monsters. We will definitely respond. […] Eternal memory to all those killed by Russian terror," he said.

Zelensky said all necessary forces had been deployed to the rescue operation.

"Unfortunately, there are many casualties. It was an attack by several Russian drones – deliberate, despicable, one after another. As of now, 14 people have been reported killed. My condolences to their families and loved ones. More than 100 people have been injured – we know that among them are 11 children. Information is being gathered about everyone who may have been at this shopping mall," Zelensky said.

Read also:Death toll from Russian drone strike on Kryvyi Rih shopping center rises to 14, 121 injured

He stressed the importance of ensuring that Ukraine has everything necessary to protect people's lives.

"It is important that we have everything to protect life. It is important that the world does not remain silent about all this. There must be an end to this Russian war – and we need the world to help us make that happen. I thank everyone who stands with Ukraine. We thank everyone who is helping people right now – there in Kryvyi Rih, on the ground, and in our other cities and communities," Zelensky said.

On August 21, Russian forces attacked Kryvyi Rih's largest shopping center with strike drones, killing at least 14 people and leaving dozens injured.

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine