Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for further sanctions against Russia following overnight attacks that killed at least 14 people and injured dozens more. These strikes come just days before crucial talks between U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators aiming for a ceasefire.
The Russian assault targeted Dobropillia in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region late on Friday, resulting in 11 deaths and 30 injuries, according to emergency services. Early on Saturday, a separate drone attack in the city of Bogodukhiv killed three people and injured seven others. Ukraine’s air force confirmed that Russia fired two missiles and 145 drones in this strike.
In response, President Zelensky emphasized the importance of strengthening air defense and continuing to impose sanctions on Russia. He posted on Telegram, stating that such attacks reveal that Russia’s objectives remain unchanged. He condemned the tactics, saying Russia deliberately targeted rescue workers after the initial assault.
The violence coincided with remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened new sanctions on Russia but also indicated that it might be easier to negotiate with Moscow than Kyiv. Trump has also criticized Ukraine’s handling of the war, and the U.S. and Ukrainian negotiators are expected to meet next week in Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, Russian forces claimed they had retaken three villages in the Kursk region, which had previously been captured by Ukrainian forces. In retaliation, Russian air defenses shot down 31 Ukrainian drones overnight. One drone attack also targeted a Russian oil refinery in Kirishi, damaging a reservoir.
As the situation escalates, the European Union has responded by agreeing to bolster its defenses, fearing a potential reduction in US. support.
