Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russia of consistently waging war against Ukraine while ignoring ceasefire agreements and diplomatic efforts.
Reports from the media suggest that at least five individuals lost their lives in the assault on Ukraine on Friday, just days after an attack targeting a Russian military base.
President Zelenskyy blames Russia for deploying over 400 drones and more than 40 missiles on Ukraine, resulting in injuries to at least 80 people, with some casualties being searched in the debris. Zelenskyy claims that the international community is observing while certain parties remain passive, failing to denounce these actions.
"Over 400 drones, more than 40 missiles were launched by the Russians. 80 people were injured, and some may still be under the debris. And unfortunately, not everyone in the world condemns such attacks. This is exactly what Putin exploits. He is buying himself time to keep waging war,” says the Ukrainian President.
He asserts that Russia’s actions disregard the pursuit of global peace and diplomatic efforts. He urges that pressure be applied to Putin to loosen his hold and allow a chance for a ceasefire.
“Diplomacy must work, security guarantees must be ensured, and peace must be established. For that, initial steps are needed, particularly a ceasefire. Pressure must be applied on Russia to make that happen and to stop the attacks,” he adds.
Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to retaliate for the assault on Russia's military installation, as reported by US President Donald Trump, who spoke with him over the phone three days ago. Trump mentioned that the discussion did not seem likely to lead to a lasting ceasefire.
On June 2, 2025, both countries engaged in peace negotiations in Türkiye, but no tangible ceasefire deal was reached.
The warring parties agreed to a prisoner-of-war exchange and the return of the bodies of thousands of fallen soldiers to their home countries. Russia insisted on receiving territory in exchange for peace, an offer that Ukraine rejected.
Ukrainian news outlets indicate that Russia aims to seize the territory in Ukraine that lies east of the Dnipro River, as well as Odesa and Mykolaiv, to prevent Ukraine from reaching the Black Sea.
The Ukrainian Military Intelligence Agency claims that Russia intends to seize Donetsk and Luhansk this autumn to create a buffer zone along Ukraine’s northern border with Russia.
