"Clear Signal" Moscow Not Pursuing Real Peace: Zelensky On Russian Strikes

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sharply criticized Russia’s latest wave of drone attacks, which saw over 100 drones launched overnight, just hours after tentative agreements for a Black Sea ceasefire were brokered. Zelensky’s remarks came after the United States announced it had facilitated ceasefire discussions between the two sides in Saudi Arabia, with former President Donald Trump calling for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict, which has now persisted for over three years.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, implementation of the ceasefire remained uncertain, as the Kremlin stated that the agreement to halt attacks on the Black Sea could only be enforced if restrictions on its agricultural sector were lifted. This condition raised doubts about the feasibility of the ceasefire taking effect anytime soon.

Zelensky condemned Russia’s actions, stating that the large-scale drone strikes following ceasefire negotiations sent a clear message to the world: Moscow was not committed to pursuing genuine peace. "Launching such large-scale attacks after ceasefire negotiations is a clear signal to the whole world that Moscow is not going to pursue real peace," he wrote on social media.

Overnight, Russia launched 117 drones at Ukrainian targets, of which 56 were shot down, and 48 disappeared from radar without causing significant damage, according to Ukraine’s air force. However, the strikes still inflicted damage on buildings in the central city of Kryvyi Rig and in the border region of Sumy, where images of burning structures were shared by local authorities.

The frontline areas also continued to suffer attacks, with the eastern Donetsk region reporting the deaths of three individuals in the past 24 hours, according to regional governor Vadym Filashkin. Zelensky called for stronger international pressure on Russia, urging more sanctions and robust action, particularly from the United States, to stop the ongoing strikes.

As the conflict continues, Zelensky emphasized the need for the world to act decisively to hold Russia accountable and stop the escalation of violence.