Russian attacks have claimed the lives of at least 23 people across Ukraine, highlighting the ongoing devastation of the conflict. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned the assaults, blaming them on Western appeasement of Russia.
“This is what happens when someone appeases barbarians,” Tusk wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday. “More bombs, more aggression, more victims. Another tragic night in Ukraine.”
Escalation Amidst U.S. Withdrawal of Military Support
The attacks come at a critical juncture in the war, with the United States halting military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv in an effort to push Ukraine toward a peace agreement. The decision has left Ukraine increasingly vulnerable to Russian offensives.
One of the deadliest strikes targeted the eastern city of Dobropillia, where 11 people were killed and over 50 others— including seven children—were injured. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the attack as “deliberately calculated to cause maximum damage.”
“It was one of the most brutal strikes, a combined one,” Zelensky stated in his nightly address. He detailed how Russian forces launched a double strike on Dobropillia, hitting rescue workers responding to the initial blast.
U.S. Policy Shift Sparks Debate
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the evolving battlefield dynamics, stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin was “doing what anybody else would do” in exploiting Ukraine’s vulnerabilities.
Further straining Ukraine’s defenses, the U.S. has also suspended Kyiv’s access to commercial satellite imagery purchased through the government from Maxar Technologies, a move confirmed by both Maxar and the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.
Search for Survivors Underway
Local officials fear more victims remain trapped under the rubble in Dobropillia, with at least eight residential buildings severely damaged. The broader wave of Russian attacks also claimed nine lives and injured 13 others in Donetsk. Additionally, a drone strike in the Kharkiv region killed three and wounded seven, while five more were injured in the southern Kherson region.
Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting 79 out of 145 drones launched by Russia overnight, with at least three missiles also deployed in the attacks.
Diplomatic Efforts and Upcoming Talks
Despite the escalating violence, diplomatic efforts continue. Zelensky confirmed ongoing discussions with European leaders and “constant contact with the American team” to coordinate efforts to end the war.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Friday, stating that Trump is “determined to end the war as soon as possible” and urging all sides to work toward a sustainable peace.
Zelensky is set to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman next week for negotiations ahead of further talks between Kyiv and Washington. His team will remain in Saudi Arabia to continue discussions with American officials.
Ukrainian Forces Under Pressure in Kursk
Meanwhile, Ukraine faces mounting challenges in Russia’s Kursk region, where its military is at risk of losing a key logistical support route. Reports from both Ukrainian and Russian military sources suggest that Moscow has deployed 12,000 North Korean troops to reinforce its positions.
Kyiv initially launched a surprise incursion into Kursk in August—the first foreign invasion of Russia since World War II—aiming to divert Russian forces from eastern Ukraine. While the operation temporarily disrupted Moscow’s offensive, Ukraine has since lost about half of the territory it initially seized.
Military analysts now warn that Ukraine’s grip on Kursk is more fragile than ever, with Russian forces advancing into Ukraine’s Sumy region and threatening to encircle Kyiv’s troops.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happened in the latest Russian missile strikes on Ukraine?
Russian missile and drone attacks targeted multiple Ukrainian cities, killing at least 23 people and injuring over 50. The strikes heavily damaged residential buildings, with some victims still trapped under the rubble.
Why did the Polish Prime Minister condemn Western appeasement?
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized Western nations for failing to take stronger action against Russia, stating that appeasing “barbarians” only encourages further aggression.
How has the U.S. responded to the situation?
The U.S. has halted military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, pressuring Kyiv to negotiate a peace agreement. It has also suspended Ukraine’s access to commercial satellite imagery used for military purposes.
What areas in Ukraine were most affected by the attacks?
The eastern city of Dobropillia suffered the highest casualties, with 11 people killed. Other affected areas include Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Kherson, where additional deaths and injuries were reported.
What are the next steps for Ukraine amid ongoing attacks?
Ukraine continues diplomatic talks with European and American allies to secure military and humanitarian aid. President Zelensky is set to meet with Saudi and U.S. officials to discuss strategies for ending the war.
Conclusion
Ukraine faces escalating Russian attacks, mounting casualties, and dwindling Western support, leaving it increasingly vulnerable. As diplomatic efforts continue, Kyiv remains in urgent need of military aid to defend its territory. The coming weeks could determine the war’s trajectory, with Ukraine struggling to hold strategic positions while Russia intensifies its offensive. Global leaders must act decisively to prevent further devastation and secure a sustainable resolution to the conflict.