Russia Hits Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Despite Limited Truce, Kills 3
In a stark reminder of the fragile nature of peace, Russia launched a drone attack on Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia city on Saturday, killing three people and injuring 12, despite a limited ceasefire agreement that had been in place for just four days. The attack has raised concerns about the sustainability of the truce, which was brokered by US President Donald Trump’s intervention on Wednesday.
According to Ukrainian officials, the attack occurred at around 1:30 am local time, as the city was still reeling from the ceasefire agreement. The Russian drones targeted residential areas, causing significant damage and triggering widespread panic among the local population.
The attack has been widely condemned by the international community, with leaders from around the world calling for an end to the violence and a return to the negotiating table. The United States, in particular, has been vocal in its criticism of Russia’s actions, with a State Department spokesperson stating that the attack was “a clear violation of the ceasefire agreement” and that the US would continue to support Ukraine in its efforts to defend its sovereignty.
The ceasefire agreement, which was announced on Wednesday, was seen as a significant breakthrough in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The agreement, which came after a phone call between Trump and the leaders of Ukraine and Russia, called for a 72-hour ceasefire and the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukrainian territory.
However, the attack on Zaporizhzhia has cast a shadow over the agreement, and raised questions about Russia’s commitment to the ceasefire. Ukrainian officials have accused Russia of continued aggression, and of using the ceasefire as a ruse to launch further attacks.
Russia, on the other hand, has denied any involvement in the attack, and has accused Ukraine of launching a “provocative” attack on its own territory. The Russian military has also claimed that its forces have been withdrawing from Ukrainian territory, as agreed upon in the ceasefire agreement.
The attack on Zaporizhzhia has also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in the city. The city has been a major hub for aid efforts, with many international organizations and NGOs operating in the area. The attack has put these efforts at risk, and has raised concerns about the safety and security of humanitarian workers.
In the wake of the attack, international leaders are calling for an immediate end to the violence, and a return to the negotiating table. The European Union has issued a statement condemning the attack, and calling for an end to the conflict. The United Nations has also called for an immediate ceasefire, and for both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue.
The attack on Zaporizhzhia is a stark reminder of the complexity and fragility of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Despite the ceasefire agreement, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable, and it is unclear whether the two sides can find a path forward.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Zaporizhzhia and Ukraine deserve peace and security. It is up to the leaders of Russia and Ukraine to take concrete steps to end the violence and to work towards a lasting solution.
Sources:
https://repository.inshorts.com/articles/en/PTI/dff3171d-0753-4f5c-8374-1f60a265bab7
