Europe (Europe Brief News) – Ukraine faced its biggest air attack yet; 3 killed in Russia’s Kursk. Zelensky, Trump, and Putin clash over peace. U.S. sends Patriots; Trump now eyes 500% Russia trade tariffs.
As BBC News reported, Ukraine faced its most extensive air attack since the war started, with many drones and missiles hitting cities. President Zelensky said this attack was a direct hit against peace efforts and was meant to stop any chance of a ceasefire.
Officials mentioned that the size and force of the overnight attacks show that Moscow is seriously increasing its aggression, targeting not only buildings and infrastructure but also the spirits of the people, especially when discussions for peace were happening. Zelensky is very upset with Russia for ignoring peace talks and accuses them of increasing violence even as the world tries to stop the conflict.
What does Ukraine’s worst strike yet mean as Trump turns on Putin?
Right after the attack, Donald Trump changed his mind about stopping military help to Ukraine. When asked about it, Trump responded with sarcasm, showing confusion within his administration about Ukraine. Trump has said he could end the war quickly, but has also become frustrated with Putin, accusing him of lying and not wanting to negotiate.
The Kremlin, however, wasn’t bothered by Trump’s words, saying they were used to his tough talk. Despite communication between Trump and Putin, a ceasefire is still far away. The U.S. is sending Patriot missiles to Ukraine.
Ukraine is under constant attack from Russian missiles and drones, with cities everywhere being targeted. Kyiv is using U.S. air defences, like Patriot missiles, to try to stop these attacks. The attacks have become so frequent that even safer areas in western Ukraine, like Lutsk, are now in danger.
Lutsk, which is important for moving military and aid supplies, was hit hard. Explosions were also heard in Lviv and Rivne. At the same time, Russia said Ukraine attacked the Kursk region, killing 3 people and injuring 7 others, including a young boy who later died.
Donald Trump is now considering sanctions against Russia. He’s looking at a plan from Senator Lindsey Graham that would put high tariffs on countries still trading with Russia. Trump had been hesitant before, but now he says he talks about sanctions with President Putin.
However, peace talks haven’t worked, and neither side expects diplomacy to help now. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s President Zelensky is in Rome for a conference, meeting with the Pope and U.S. officials.
Germany says diplomatic options are done and will give Ukraine more air defence. Russia is still attacking in eastern Ukraine, and there’s no sign that they will stop their invasion that started in February 2022.
