Russian Strikes Kill at Least 25 in Ukraine Amid Escalating Conflict
At least 25 people have been killed in a new wave of Russian airstrikes across Ukraine, officials reported, as the war shows no signs of abating. The attacks targeted multiple regions, causing widespread destruction to homes and infrastructure.
Deadliest Strikes in Donetsk Region
The most devastating attack occurred in the Donetsk Region town of Dobropillya late Friday. According to local authorities, two ballistic missiles struck eight residential buildings and a shopping center, killing at least 11 people and injuring 40 others, including six children.
Following the initial strike, Russia reportedly launched another attack aimed at rescuers responding to the scene, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated. He condemned the strike, saying it underscored Russia’s continued aggression.
Other Russian attacks in Donetsk over Friday and Saturday left at least nine more dead and 13 wounded, according to regional officials.
Further Attacks Across Ukraine
Elsewhere, drone strikes in the Kharkiv Region early Saturday targeted a company in Bohodukhiv, killing three people and injuring seven, regional head Oleh Synyehubov reported. Meanwhile, in Odesa, another drone attack struck civilian and energy infrastructure, marking the seventh such strike on the region’s power system in just three weeks.
Despite these attacks, Ukraine has continued its countermeasures. Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed its forces intercepted 31 Ukrainian drones overnight.
Growing Tensions Amid U.S. Policy Shift
The escalation comes as the United States temporarily halted military aid and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine. The decision followed a heated Oval Office exchange last week between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Zelensky.
Trump has expressed frustration over negotiations with Ukraine, stating that dealing with Kyiv is "more difficult" than working with Moscow. He also suggested he was "strongly considering" imposing large-scale sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire is reached.
In addition to cutting military assistance, the U.S. has also restricted Ukraine’s access to satellite imagery, a move confirmed by space technology company Maxar.
European Leaders Voice Concerns
The shift in U.S. policy has raised concerns across Europe. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized what he called attempts to appease Russia, warning, “This is what happens when someone appeases barbarians—more bombs, more aggression, more victims.”
EU leaders recently met in Brussels to reaffirm their support for Ukraine and discuss increasing defense spending. Meanwhile, Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to meet Ukrainian negotiators in Saudi Arabia next week to explore the possibility of a ceasefire with Russia.
Ongoing War and Russian Occupation
Since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia has seized control of approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory. With no diplomatic breakthrough in sight, the war continues to take a devastating toll on civilians across Ukraine.
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