Selensky Questions Putin's Commitment to Peace Amid Renewed Attacks
In the wake of a significant recent offensive by Russia against Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selensky has cast doubt on Russian President Vladimir Putin's intentions for a peaceful resolution. On Sunday, Selensky expressed his concerns via a social media post, emphasizing that the recent escalation in attacks reflects Putin's response to international diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the conflict.
Over the past week, Russia has reportedly launched over 1,460 guided bombs, deployed nearly 670 combat drones, and fired more than 30 missiles against Ukrainian targets. The nighttime assault on Sunday was described by Ukrainian officials as the most extensive of its kind in several weeks, highlighting the ongoing intensity of hostilities.
Selensky stated that allies from the United States to Europe and beyond have witnessed Russia's continued aggression and that it is imperative not to lessen the pressure on Moscow. He called for unwavering efforts to ensure security and pave the way for peace.
The Ukrainian military reported that during the recent nighttime attack, they managed to intercept 13 of the 23 missiles and 40 of the 109 drones targeted at various locations across Ukraine. However, 53 drones were lost due to electronic warfare measures that diverted or disrupted them.
Tragically, the assault on Kyiv led to casualties, with one individual confirmed dead and three others injured. Initial reports had indicated three injuries, which were later updated as the situation evolved.
Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed that its air force successfully intercepted and destroyed eleven Ukrainian drones during the same period. Operations of air defense were reported in border regions including Kursk and Belgorod, as well as in the southern Russian region of Rostov. Local authorities in Rostov stated that there were no reports of injuries following the drone attacks, although debris from the drones fell on administrative buildings.