Russia’s military launched a series of deadly missile, rocket, and drone strikes in eastern Ukraine, killing at least 14 people and injuring dozens more. The attacks primarily targeted the city of Dobropillya in the Donetsk region and the city of Bogodukhiv in Kharkiv, leading to extensive damage and casualties.
Missile Attacks on Dobropillya
On Friday night, Russian forces hit Dobropillya with multiple strikes, damaging eight multi-story buildings. The attack killed 11 people and injured over 30 others, with reports of severe damage to an administrative building and 30 cars. While firefighters worked to extinguish fires caused by the blasts, Russian forces launched another attack, damaging a fire truck and further endangering rescue workers. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strike, calling it a “vile and inhumane” tactic.
Bogodukhiv Strikes Cause More Casualties
On Saturday morning, Russian forces struck the city of Bogodukhiv in the Kharkiv region, killing three people and injuring seven others. The attacks are part of a broader escalation of violence in eastern Ukraine as Russia continues to target key infrastructure and civilian areas.
Russia’s Claims of Territorial Gains
Russian state news agency TASS reported that Russian forces had retaken control of three villages—Viktorovka, Nikolaevka, and Staraya Sorochina—from Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region.
U.S. Suspends Ukraine’s Access to Satellite Intelligence
The United States announced on Friday that it had temporarily halted Ukraine’s access to unclassified satellite images, which had been critical in aiding Ukraine’s defense efforts. The suspension comes after tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine, notably following a contentious meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy last week.
Diplomatic and Military Developments
Despite the continued violence, both Ukrainian and Western officials are focused on future diplomatic efforts. The U.S. and Ukrainian representatives will meet in Saudi Arabia next week to discuss potential peace talks. Meanwhile, the European Union has agreed to boost military spending to support Ukraine’s defense.
Conclusion: Ongoing Struggles and International Implications
As the war in Ukraine drags on, Russia’s attacks on civilian areas and critical infrastructure continue to cause significant harm. Both military and diplomatic efforts remain in motion, but with no immediate resolution in sight, the situation continues to escalate, drawing international attention and concern.