Russia has launched a significant aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying over 460 drones in a single day, resulting in the deaths of six individuals. This attack occurred during ongoing discussions regarding a proposed peace plan aimed at ending the prolonged conflict between the two nations. The latest military strike was confirmed as Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll engaged with Russian officials in Abu Dhabi to deliberate on a 28-point peace proposal submitted by former President Donald Trump.
The peace proposal has sparked diverse reactions, drawing both criticism and support from political leaders worldwide. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned Russia’s actions, asserting that the country, under the influence of President Vladimir Putin, is resisting the pursuit of peace. Macron expressed his backing for the peace proposal but emphasized the need for enhancements to avoid any scenario that might force Ukraine into a position of capitulation. “We want peace, but we don’t want a peace that is, in fact, a capitulation,” he stated in advance of a planned video call with European leaders to discuss potential ceasefire arrangements.
In response to the drone strikes, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Russia, urging continued international pressure on the aggressor as diplomatic efforts unfold. The recent assault focused heavily on Ukraine’s capital, inflicting extensive damage to residential buildings and vital civilian infrastructure. As of the latest reports, thirteen people sustained injuries, and six fatalities were confirmed. Zelensky noted that many of the targeted sites served no military purpose, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attacks.
“Right now in Kyiv, our first responders are working at the sites of Russian strikes,” Zelensky remarked, further detailing the impact across various regions, including Odesa, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Chernihiv, and Cherkasy. He reported that the attacks involved a total of 22 missiles and a majority of drones, particularly the Russian-Iranian ‘Shaheds’. Notably, four of these drones entered the airspace of Ukraine’s neighboring countries, Moldova and Romania, marking an alarming trend in the conflict’s escalation.
Zelensky underscored the importance of international partnerships in providing military support and maintaining sanctions against Russia. “Weapons and air defense systems are important, as is the sanctions pressure on the aggressor. There can be no pauses in assistance,” he emphasized. He reiterated that collective diplomatic efforts are essential to ensure that pressure on Russia yields tangible results.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on the balance between military action and the pursuit of a lasting peace, with leaders around the world watching closely for any shifts in the dynamics of this ongoing conflict.
