Escalation of Hostilities Between Russia and Ukraine Post…

In the wake of a Putin-Trump call, Russia and Ukraine intensified military attacks, damaging civilian infrastructure. Zelensky reported the targeting of hospitals and infrastructure, while Putin linked a ceasefire to military aid from Ukraine’s allies. Continued strikes on both sides signify a grim outlook for peace efforts.

Following a recent call between Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump, both Russia and Ukraine have escalated their military actions, causing significant damage to infrastructure. Despite Putin’s claim to halt attacks on Ukrainian energy sites, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russian strikes targeted hospitals and other civilian facilities, thereby undermining the prospect for a comprehensive ceasefire.

During the call, Putin stated that a full ceasefire would require Ukraine’s allies to cease military assistance, a proposal rejected by Ukraine’s European partners. Hours later, Ukrainian officials reported a drone attack in the Krasnodar region of Russia, igniting a fire at an oil depot, illustrating the ongoing conflict’s intensity.

Following the announcement of supposed restraint on targeting energy infrastructure, Zelensky noted, “there have been hits, specifically on civilian infrastructure”, confirming attacks including one on a hospital in Sumy. He indicated that more than 40 drone attacks from Russia occurred in the hours post-call, emphasizing the destructive impact on Ukraine’s energy sector and daily life.

Additional reports from the Russian defense ministry highlighted their interception of 57 Ukrainian drones, particularly in the Kursk border area, while local officials in Belgorod reported a difficult situation due to alleged Ukrainian assaults. Putin’s refusal to endorse a comprehensive ceasefire, despite Trump’s diplomatic efforts, signifies a continuing stalemate.

Upcoming discussions on the Ukraine situation are scheduled to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, as diplomatic attempts persist amid ongoing violence. Zelensky previously stated that 80% of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure had been obliterated by Russian assaults, further complicating the humanitarian crisis.

The recent military actions by Russia and Ukraine, following a call between Putin and Trump, highlight the fragility of the peace process. Despite claims of halting attacks on energy infrastructure, Ukraine remains under consistent assault, jeopardizing civilian safety and further damaging critical infrastructure. The rejection of a comprehensive ceasefire reflects the ongoing challenges in diplomatic negotiations, with military engagements continuing to escalate, complicating any potential resolution.

Original Source: www.bbc.com