Russia has conducted a significant wave of attacks against Ukraine, launching 574 drones and 40 missiles, according to Ukrainian officials. This bombardment marks one of the most intense assaults seen in recent weeks. Reports indicate that one individual died in Lviv due to the strikes, while 15 others suffered injuries in the Transcarpathia region following missile attacks.
These military actions coincide with diplomatic efforts led by US President Donald Trump to encourage a resolution to the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha emphasized that such strikes illustrate the urgency of peace negotiations. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed Ukraine’s readiness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in several neutral locations, including Switzerland or Austria, although he dismissed Budapest as a suitable venue due to political considerations.
Zelensky’s comments about a potential meeting came after discussions held by Trump with both leaders. While initially proposing a trilateral negotiation format involving himself, Trump later suggested it may be better for the two leaders to meet without him, indicating he could join if necessary.
The Ukrainian air force reported that it had intercepted 577 of the 614 missile and drone strikes launched overnight, marking the largest air assault since July. In addition to eastern regions typically targeted, these strikes have affected western areas, with reports of various advanced missile types being utilized.
In Lviv, attacks caused significant damage to over 20 civilian buildings, including residential areas. Meanwhile, in Mukachevo, missile strikes hit a US electronics firm, injuring 15 people and causing extensive damage. Sybiha detailed the impact on an American manufacturing plant in the area.
Despite these developments, Zelensky noted a lack of concrete indications from Moscow regarding a genuine interest in serious negotiations to resolve the conflict. He reiterated his concerns about Budapest as a host for potential peace talks, citing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s ties with Russia. Additionally, Zelensky highlighted increased Russian military activity in the Zaporizhzhia region, where forces are reportedly being repositioned.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62wj8yje2eo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss