A Russian missile strike in Dnipro, eastern Ukraine, resulted in four fatalities and 40 injuries, according to local authorities. Reports indicate that a ballistic missile may have been deployed during the attack, which occurred on Monday morning. Eyewitness videos captured a significant explosion near a motorway, and local media reported damage to an office building, vehicles, and shops.
Dnipro, located approximately 100km (62 miles) from the front lines, has faced frequent attacks from Russian forces since the onset of the full-scale invasion in February 2022. This incident coincided with diplomatic efforts involving US officials aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict. On the eve of the attack, US special envoy Steve Witkoff was scheduled to meet with President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. Witkoff has engaged with both Russian and Ukrainian delegations in discussions regarding potential peace negotiations.
Despite recent talks described as “constructive” by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, significant disagreements persist between Russia and Ukraine. A major point of contention remains Russia’s insistence on Ukraine’s withdrawal from disputed regions in the Donbas, which Ukraine refuses to consider. Putin asserted that military action would be used if Ukraine did not comply, while Zelensky criticized Russia for dismissing sincere attempts to negotiate peace.
Additionally, security concerns for Ukraine’s future remain unresolved, with Kyiv and its European allies advocating for security guarantees, including NATO membership. Russia opposes such guarantees, and former President Donald Trump has indicated apprehension regarding Ukraine’s potential NATO membership.
Zelensky has been actively seeking support from international leaders, including recent meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris and a planned trip to Ireland. The Ukrainian leadership faces challenges at home, with a recent corruption scandal affecting key officials, including the resignation of chief of staff Andriy Yermak. The ongoing conflict has resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement, with the war’s roots tracing back to 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea following the ousting of Ukraine’s pro-Russian president.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1m8nmx75evo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss