Intensified Aerial Assaults Between Russia and Ukraine Following Ceasefire Discussions
Russia and Ukraine engaged in heavy aerial attacks after Putin discussed a ceasefire proposal with a U.S. envoy. Both sides reported significant drone activities, while Ukraine expressed skepticism over Moscow’s commitment. Zelenskyy warned of escalating tensions and urged a strong response if Russia does not agree to the ceasefire. U.S. officials continue to engage diplomatically.
Overnight, Russia and Ukraine engaged in significant aerial attacks, with each side reporting more than 100 drones over their territories. This exchange occurred shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff discussed a proposed 30-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict.
During a press conference, President Putin expressed conditional support for the truce but outlined numerous details requiring clarification prior to agreement. Kyiv officials have voiced skepticism regarding Russia’s commitment to the ceasefire, despite endorsing the proposal.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, following virtual talks with Western allies led by U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressed support for the ceasefire but cautioned that Russia may complicate negotiations with various conditions. Starmer advocated for maintaining pressure on Putin, asserting that Ukraine represents the “party of peace.”
Zelenskyy accused Moscow of escalating military presence along the border, underscoring that such buildup suggests Russia’s intention to disregard diplomatic efforts. He warned that a failure to agree on the ceasefire would prompt a “specific, harsh and straightforward” response from the U.S.
Despite assertions of troop encirclement made by President Trump, Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukrainian forces remain active in Russia’s Kursk region, stating that they are successfully holding off Russian advancements.
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to discuss future steps following recent encounters in Saudi Arabia. They concurred on the importance of re-establishing communication between the U.S. and Russia.
The Ukrainian air force reported that Russia launched 178 drones and two ballistic missiles in a recent attack, with 130 drones intercepted and 38 failing to reach their targets. Significant damage was inflicted on Ukrainian energy infrastructures in Dnipropetrovsk and Odesa, resulting in power outages for numerous residents.
In Russia’s Volgograd region, drone debris led to a fire near a Lukoil oil refinery, prompting temporary flight halts at nearby airports but, thankfully, no casualties were reported. The refinery has previously been targeted, most recently in a drone attack earlier this year.
This report details escalating aerial engagements between Russia and Ukraine amidst ongoing discussions for a ceasefire proposed by the U.S. President Putin’s conditional support raises skepticism from Kyiv, which remains wary of Russia’s intentions. Concurrently, significant drone and missile attacks continue to impact both countries, underscoring the persistent volatility of the conflict. The situation calls for immediate attention from global leaders to ensure the peace process can advance.
Original Source: www.grenadastar.com
