LONDON — Ukraine faced one of its largest aerial assaults in recent months as Russian forces launched a widespread missile and drone attack overnight. Ukrainian authorities reported that 181 drones and three missiles targeted key locations across the country, with 115 drones successfully intercepted. The attack left significant damage in multiple regions, intensifying calls for an end to hostilities.
The escalation coincided with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s address to Congress, where he highlighted ongoing diplomatic efforts for a “beautiful” peace deal between Ukraine and Russia. While Trump spoke of potential reconciliation, Ukraine continued to experience relentless strikes, with air raid sirens sounding throughout the night.
Ukraine Calls for Immediate Halt to Attacks
Andriy Yermak, head of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s office, condemned the attack and urged an immediate cessation of Russian aggression. “Russia must stop the daily shelling of Ukraine immediately if it truly wants the war to end,” Yermak stated on Telegram.
Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and now deputy chairman of the Security Council, countered these calls, emphasizing that “inflicting maximum defeat on the enemy” remains Russia’s primary objective. The conflicting statements underscore the deep divisions as both sides push for a favorable resolution.
Odesa Suffers Heavy Damage, Civilians Impacted
The southern port city of Odesa was among the hardest hit. Ukrainian officials reported a “massive” strike that resulted in at least one civilian death due to drone shrapnel. Critical infrastructure sustained severe damage, leaving parts of the city without electricity, water, and heat.
“Private homes in Odesa suburbs were damaged by falling debris from intercepted drones,” the city’s military administration reported. Fires broke out in multiple locations, and a missile struck an abandoned sanatorium, further exacerbating the destruction.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating that its forces targeted military infrastructure, including airfields, fuel depots, and unmanned aerial vehicle control centers.
U.S. and Ukraine: Rising Tensions Over Aid and Intelligence Sharing
The attacks come amid growing tensions between Ukraine and the United States. Trump’s administration has recently paused military aid and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, a move that has alarmed Kyiv. CIA Director John Ratcliffe confirmed the decision, stating that Trump is prioritizing peace negotiations.
“President Trump has called for a temporary pause in military and intelligence support, signaling that both sides must commit to peace talks,” Ratcliffe said. Ukrainian officials have acknowledged the suspension, confirming that access to U.S. satellite intelligence has been restricted. However, Ukraine continues to receive intelligence from European allies.
The diplomatic strain reached a peak last week when an Oval Office meeting between Trump, Zelenskyy, and Vice President JD Vance reportedly devolved into a heated dispute, resulting in Ukrainian officials being asked to leave the White House.
Trump Pushes for Economic Agreements Amid Peace Talks
Despite tensions, Trump remains optimistic about brokering a deal. In his address to Congress, he revealed that Zelenskyy had sent a letter expressing openness to negotiations. “I appreciate that he sent this letter. It just arrived a little while ago,” Trump said. “We’ve had serious discussions with Russia and received strong signals that they are ready for peace. Wouldn’t that be beautiful?”
The potential agreement includes economic cooperation, with Trump proposing a deal that would grant the U.S. access to Ukraine’s natural resources. While Zelenskyy initially resisted, he has now indicated readiness to negotiate under Trump’s leadership.
“None of us wants an endless war,” Zelenskyy said in a statement. “Ukraine is prepared to engage in peace talks at any time, in any format, to bring lasting peace closer. We value America’s support and acknowledge the significant role President Trump played in our defense.” He also expressed regret over the failed White House meeting, calling for “constructive future cooperation.”
Europe Backs Ukraine as Peace Prospects Remain Unclear
As European allies rally behind Ukraine, urging continued support, Trump’s decision to freeze aid remains controversial. Some U.S. officials have expressed concerns that limiting assistance could weaken Ukraine’s position in negotiations and embolden Russian aggression.
The Biden administration had previously committed extensive aid packages to Ukraine, reinforcing military and economic resilience. With Trump now steering foreign policy, the direction of U.S.-Ukraine relations is uncertain.
As Russia continues its bombardment, Ukraine stands at a crossroads between military resistance and diplomatic negotiation. With Trump’s administration signaling a shift in U.S. policy, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a “beautiful” peace deal is truly within reach or if hostilities will escalate further.
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