Kiev, Ukraine – Drone Attack in Kharkiv Leaves Many Injured
A recent drone attack by Russian forces on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, has resulted in significant injuries, with local authorities reporting that 47 people have been hurt. This incident occurred late on Friday night and has prompted President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to urge for stronger and more decisive support from Ukraine’s allies.
The attack targeted multiple locations in the city, damaging residential buildings, public infrastructure, and vehicles, according to Kharkiv’s mayor, Ihor Terekhov. The regional governor, Oleh Syniehubov, highlighted the damage caused by Russian drones equipped with thermobaric warheads, which create powerful shockwaves and extensive destruction. This use of such weaponry raises serious concerns regarding violations of international humanitarian law.
In a post on social media, Zelenskyy expressed the urgency of the situation, stating that while the world hesitates in making firm decisions, Ukrainians face nightly terror that takes lives. He emphasized the need for enhanced air defense capabilities and called for immediate and effective decisions from partners like the U.S. and Europe, who are seeking peace in the region.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched 183 explosive drones and decoys overnight, with 77 intercepted by Ukrainian defenses. Additionally, two ballistic missiles were fired during this assault. Meanwhile, the Kremlin’s Defense Ministry claimed to have downed 170 enemy drones as well as several missiles.
In another incident, five individuals, including two children, were injured in a drone attack in Novorossiysk, a port city in southern Russia.
Zelenskyy Supports 30-Day Ceasefire Proposal from the U.S.
This escalation in hostilities follows an agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine that allows Washington access to Ukraine’s mineral resources. This pivotal agreement has raised concerns about the continuity of U.S. military aid, especially with apprehensions regarding President Trump’s potential impact on ongoing peace negotiations with Russia.
During a press conference in Kiev, Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is open to accepting a ceasefire but stressed that it must last for 30 days, as initially suggested by the U.S. He argues that meaningful discussions cannot occur in just a few days and emphasizes the necessity for a substantial and realistic timeframe to move toward ending the conflict that has persisted for over three years.
Zelenskyy criticized the Kremlin’s announcement of a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire, suggesting it is merely a tactic to create a relaxed atmosphere for celebrations in Russia. He described it as insincere, noting that it appears to cater to the comfort of attendees at the Victory Day celebrations in Red Square.
Ukraine Cannot Ensure Safety for Visitors to Russia
Zelenskyy further declared that Ukraine cannot guarantee the safety of foreign officials planning to visit Russia around May 9. He warned that Moscow may stage provocations and blame Ukraine. Some governments have previously approached Kiev for safety assurances, which he firmly rejected, stating that Russia is responsible for its own security.
He instructed the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry to advise against travel to Russia during this time, emphasizing that it is a personal choice for those who decide to go.
Zelenskyy reiterated his commitment to responding to Russian military actions, framing Ukraine’s future actions as reflective of Russia’s approach. While he acknowledged the challenges of achieving a comprehensive ceasefire without solid international oversight, he believes the suggested 30-day period provides a credible starting point.
He also mentioned ongoing efforts to organize meetings with international advisors, indicating upcoming negotiations with the U.S., which he hopes could take place in Ukraine—a positive sign amidst shifting dynamics in Washington.
Russia Calls for De-Escalation from Ukraine
In response to Zelenskyy’s comments, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, accused him of threatening world leaders planning visits to Moscow on May 9. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed hopes that Ukraine would take steps to de-escalate tensions before Victory Day. He indicated that Russia’s ceasefire proposal aims to test Ukraine’s readiness for genuine peace initiatives.
Peskov also dismissed the possibility of the UK acting as a mediator in the negotiations, asserting that a true mediator must be neutral, which he claims London cannot achieve.
This developing situation highlights the complexities of the ongoing conflict and the pressing need for effective diplomatic resolutions.
