Russia Intensifies Attacks on Kyiv amidst New Peace Proposal
Kyiv, Ukraine – as a potential path toward ending the conflict emerges, Russia launched a meaningful aerial assault on Kyiv overnight, killing six people adn prompting air raid sirens across the capital. The attacks, involving 22 missiles and 400 drones, came hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy indicated a willingness to discuss a new peace proposal, one strikingly similar to a plan presented in April 2022 that ultimately failed.
The renewed proposal focuses on a potential freeze of the current front lines in eastern Ukraine, areas partially occupied by Russia. Zelenskyy has clarified Ukraine is prepared to consider this, but firmly rejects ceding territory to Russia or having any such transfer internationally recognized – a key component of the earlier, unsuccessful plan. He plans to discuss the details of the proposal with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“He warned ukrainians to be very attentive in the days and weeks to come for the air alerts, reminding that Russia will not reduce its pressure,” reported NPRS Eleanor Beardsley from Kyiv. She described spending the night in a safe room as the attacks unfolded.
Despite the ongoing violence, Ukrainians demonstrate a degree of resilience, accustomed to the cycle of negotiations and renewed conflict. Architect Anton Melnyk, a resident of Dnipro currently in Kyiv for training, expressed cautious optimism.
“He says this new plan could only be better than the old plan, which was written by Russia,” Beardsley relayed. Melnyk also emphasized the need for continued international pressure, stating, “smother Russia with sanctions to squeeze and destroy its war machine.”
However, Russia has already signaled its disapproval of the European-backed plan, with a Kremlin advisor dismissing it as unworkable.Despite this rejection, Russian and U.S. counterparts are scheduled to meet today in Abu Dhabi.
Analysts suggest that provided that President Vladimir Putin believes battlefield gains are possible, despite estimated monthly soldier losses of 35,000, he will continue the offensive. The lack of common ground between the two sides presents a significant obstacle to a lasting peace.
Zelenskyy is also expected to travel to Washington to meet with President Trump to discuss the proposal.
(Source: NPR news)
