Ukraine and Russia are trading accusations over violations of a three-day ceasefire declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The ceasefire began on Thursday, but both sides claim the other has broken it repeatedly.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, reported that Russia has violated the truce 734 times since it started. He mentioned that there were 63 assault operations carried out by Russian forces. These figures were recorded between midnight and midday local time. The violations reportedly occurred in the northern Sumy region and the eastern part of the country.
Tragically, one person was killed and two others injured when Russian forces targeted residential areas in northeastern Sumy with guided air bombs. This incident highlights the ongoing danger civilians face amid the conflict.
In response to Ukraine’s claims, Russia’s defense ministry stated that Ukraine had violated the ceasefire 488 times. They also alleged that Ukrainian forces attempted to breach the border in the Kursk region, an area where fighting has intensified in recent months.
Putin declared the ceasefire to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. He is set to host Chinese President Xi Jinping and other leaders at a military parade on Red Square in Moscow. However, Ukraine did not agree to this ceasefire, viewing it as a ploy by Putin to appear peace-seeking.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed willingness to observe a longer, 30-day ceasefire, a proposal initially suggested by the U.S. in March. This indicates a potential opening for dialogue, despite the ongoing hostilities.
As the situation develops, both sides continue to blame each other for the ceasefire violations, underscoring the persistent tensions in the region.