Ukraine Suffers Heavy Losses as Russian Strikes Continue

Russian Strikes Kill at Least 20, Damage Infrastructure

Russian strikes on Ukraine have killed at least 20 people, officials said Saturday, as heavy aerial attacks continued into the second night following a U.S. decision to stop sharing satellite images with Ukraine. The decision to withhold intelligence and military aid came on the heels of a tempestuous White House visit last week by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Without U.S. satellite imagery, Ukraine’s ability to strike inside Russia and defend itself from bombardment is significantly diminished.

Multiple Strikes Hit Embattled Donetsk Region

At least 11 people were killed in multiple strikes on a town in Ukraine’s embattled Donetsk region late Friday, regional Gov. Vadym Filashkin said. The attack damaged eight apartment blocks in the town of Dobropillya, which is close to the front where Russian troops have been making steady advances. Ukraine’s State Emergency Service said a Russian drone damaged a Ukrainian fire truck while rescuers fought to extinguish the burning buildings.

Additional Casualties Reported in Front-Line Towns

Another six people were killed in the front-line towns of Pokrovsk, Kostyantynivka, Myrnograd, and Ivanopillya, Filashkin said, while emergency services reported that three others died when a Russian drone hit a civilian workshop in the northeastern Kharkiv region. Filashkin declared Saturday a day of mourning in the region and warned that more victims could still be found in the rubble.

U.S. Freeze of Intelligence Sharing Ups Pressure on Zelenskyy

The wave of attacks took place just 24 hours after Russia hit Ukrainian energy facilities with dozens of missiles and drones, hobbling its ability to deliver heat and light to its citizens and to power weapons factories vital to its defences. The U.S. freeze of intelligence sharing ups pressure on Zelenskyy, with some analysts saying it may be an attempt to force Ukraine to accept a peace deal being pushed by the Trump administration.

Zelenskyy Appeals for International Support

Zelenskyy said at least five children were among the injured in Dobropillya. “Last night, the Russian army fired two ballistic missiles at the center of Dobropillya,” he said. “After emergency services arrived at the scene, they launched another strike, deliberately targeting rescuers. It is a vile and inhumane intimidation tactic to which the Russians often resort.”

Ukraine’s Air Force Reports Heavy Drone Activity

Ukraine’s air force reported Saturday that Russian troops launched three Iskander missiles and 145 drones over the country overnight. The bombardment contained a mix of attack and decoy drones intended to confuse air defences. One missile and 79 drones were shot down, while 54 more drones were lost without causing damage, the Ukrainian air force said.

Conclusion

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has resulted in significant human suffering and infrastructure damage. The international community must come together to support Ukraine in its efforts to defend itself against Russian aggression.

Frequently Asked Questions

* Q: What is the current situation in Ukraine?
A: The situation in Ukraine is dire, with ongoing conflict and heavy casualties reported.
* Q: What is the role of the United States in the conflict?
A: The United States has suspended intelligence sharing with Ukraine, which has weakened Ukraine’s ability to defend itself.
* Q: What is the impact of the Russian strikes on Ukraine’s infrastructure?
A: The Russian strikes have damaged infrastructure, including energy facilities and residential areas, causing significant disruptions to daily life in Ukraine.
* Q: What is the international community’s response to the crisis?
A: The international community has condemned the Russian aggression and is calling for an immediate end to the conflict.