Escalating Hostilities Despite Ceasefire in Ukraine
The Armed Forces of Ukraine have reported new bombings in the Sumy region just hours after a ceasefire went into effect to honor the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. The Ukrainian Army communicated via Telegram that there were repeated launches of guided aerial bombs by enemy tactical aircraft in the area, raising concerns among the local population.
Meanwhile, Igor Artamonov, the governor of Russia's Lipetsk region, indicated on the same platform that Ukrainian drone activity had been recorded in western Russia, highlighting the escalating tensions on both sides of the conflict.
In reports from the frontlines, at least eight people died and 23 were injured in attacks conducted by the Russian Army in the Donetsk province over the last 24 hours, according to governor Vadim Filashkin. He noted that over 3,200 people have now died, with another 7,000 injured due to Russian hostilities in the region—figures that exclude casualties from the besieged cities of Mariupol and Volnovakha.
The ceasefire, proposed by Russian President Vladimir Putin, was intended to halt attacks from midnight on May 7 to May 8, with initial plans to extend until late on May 10. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is advocating for a 30-day ceasefire, emphasizing that his proposal aims to open avenues for meaningful diplomatic dialogue.
In an evening address, Zelensky reiterated his call for a month-long truce, which he considers a genuine opportunity for diplomacy, once again accusing Putin of orchestrating a series of bombings instead of genuinely seeking peace. He labeled the ceasefire a potential trap, stating that Ukraine will not withdraw its call for a complete and fair armistice.
In light of the continuing violence, Putin instructed his military forces to remain vigilant, preparing to repel any violations of the truce or provocations from Ukrainian forces. The ongoing conflict continues to raise significant humanitarian concerns, with civilians on both sides bearing the brunt of the hostilities.
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