Russia’s Heavy Bombardment on Ukraine
In a relentless assault, Russia has unleashed 574 drones and 40 missiles on Ukraine, marking one of the most intense bombardments in recent weeks, according to Ukrainian officials.
Amidst the chaos, one person tragically lost their life in a drone and missile strike on Lviv in the west, while 15 individuals were injured in an attack on the south-western Transcarpathia region.
The strikes coincide with US President Donald Trump’s active involvement in diplomatic efforts to cease the war, emphasizing the critical importance of ending the conflict, as stated by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
Possible Meeting Between Zelensky and Putin
President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed readiness to meet with Russia’s Vladimir Putin in neutral European territories such as Switzerland, Austria, or even Istanbul.
Zelensky is open to engaging in discussions with Putin in any format, excluding Budapest due to current complications. The possibility of direct talks arose following Trump’s interactions with Putin and hosting Zelensky and European leaders at the White House.
Initially, Trump proposed trilateral talks involving himself, Putin, and Zelensky, but later suggested he might abstain from participation, stating, “Now I think it would be better if they met without me… If necessary, I’ll go.”
Escalation of Air Attacks
Ukraine’s air force reported 614 drones and missiles launched by Russia overnight, successfully intercepting 577 of them in the largest air assault since July.
While Russian attacks typically target eastern regions near the front lines, the recent strikes extended to western areas as well, employing hypersonic, ballistic, and cruise missiles.
The Ukrainian air force noted that many attacks originated from western Russia, the Black Sea, and even Russian-occupied Crimea, resulting in devastating consequences in Lviv and Transcarpathia.
Zelensky’s Stance on Peace Talks
Addressing the media, Zelensky expressed disappointment in the lack of progress towards substantive negotiations with Moscow to end the conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for meaningful dialogue.
Furthermore, he expressed reservations about Budapest as a potential venue for peace talks due to Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s close ties with Moscow, underscoring the importance of impartial hosting for productive discussions.
As tensions escalate on the southern front line in Zaporizhzhia, one of the regions claimed by Russia, Zelensky remains vigilant about the ongoing military movements, highlighting the need for a peaceful resolution.
“We can see that they continue transferring part of their troops from the Kursk direction to Zaporizhzhia.”— BBC
