Deadly Barrage Across Ukraine
Russia launched a significant barrage of drone and missile strikes across Ukraine on Tuesday, resulting in the deaths of at least 22 people and injuring over 80. The attacks occurred just hours before Kyiv had planned to observe a ceasefire and days before a pause announced by Moscow.
Glide bombs impacted the Ukrainian cities of Kramatorsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Chernihiv in the afternoon, killing at least 17 civilians and wounding 45. Overnight strikes added to the casualties, leaving five dead and 39 injured, according to reports.
Zelenskyy Condemns Russian Actions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed strong condemnation, calling the attacks an act of “absolute cynicism.” He criticized Moscow’s demand for silence during propagandistic celebrations while simultaneously launching missile and drone strikes in the preceding days.
“Every day, Russia could cease fire, and that would stop the war and our responses. Peace is needed, and real steps are required for it. Ukraine will act in kind,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing that Russia holds the power to end the conflict at any moment.
Ceasefire Plans and UN Involvement
Russia’s Defense Ministry had previously stated its intention to implement a unilateral ceasefire on Friday and Saturday, coinciding with Victory Day. However, the ministry warned of retaliation if Ukraine were to disrupt these events. The United Nations welcomed these announcements, with Secretary-General António Guterres urging a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire.
Guterres called for “a full, immediate, unconditional and lasting ceasefire, leading to a just, comprehensive, and sustainable peace, in line with the U.N. Charter, international law and relevant U.N. resolutions.” Victory Day, observed annually on May 9 in Russia, commemorates the Allied victory over Nazi Germany.
History of Failed Truces
Russia has a history of announcing short holiday truces, including one for Orthodox Easter. However, these ceasefires have consistently failed to hold amidst deep-seated mistrust between the two nations. During the previous Easter ceasefire, Ukraine’s military reported over 2,200 violations, including shelling, assaults, and drone activity. Conversely, Russia’s Defense Ministry accused Ukrainian forces of nearly 2,000 breaches, citing strikes in border regions that allegedly injured civilians.
