Tragedy Strikes Kyiv
In the wake of the second largest aerial attack of the war, Kyiv mourns the loss of at least 23 individuals, including four children.
The city’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, has declared a day of mourning to pay respects to the victims as a massive recovery effort is underway at the five-storey block of flats where 22 of the 23 casualties occurred.
International Outcry
The attack has sparked widespread condemnation with the White House expressing President Donald Trump’s discontent and the European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen accusing Russia of resorting to terrorism.
EU defence ministers are set to convene in Copenhagen to discuss military support for Ukraine as the repercussions of the attack continue to unfold.
The assault also resulted in damage to the EU’s diplomatic mission and the British Council building in central Kyiv.
Fierce Criticism
Lithuania’s Defence Minister Dovilė Šakalienė criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for stalling peace negotiations and allowing more lives to be lost.
Estonia’s Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasized that Nato membership would provide the best security guarantee for Ukraine.
Escalating Tensions
Despite a decrease in fighting overnight, both Russia and Ukraine reported the downing of numerous drones.
Kharkiv regional head Oleh Syniehubov disclosed multiple attacks in his region, resulting in one fatality in Kupyansk.
Stalled Peace Efforts
President Trump’s attempts to facilitate a summit between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Putin have hit a roadblock as the conflict intensifies.
Zelensky condemned Moscow for choosing violence over diplomacy and called for stringent sanctions against Russia.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz cast doubt on the possibility of a meeting between Putin and Zelensky following discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron. — BBC
