Russia Attacks Two Ukrainian Hospitals After Putin Rejects Trump's Ceasefire

The fragile hopes for a de-escalation in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine were shattered as Russian forces launched attacks on civilian infrastructure, including two Ukrainian hospitals, shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected a comprehensive ceasefire proposal. These attacks followed a period of diplomatic efforts, which included a phone call between Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at establishing a cessation of hostilities. While a partial agreement to halt attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure was initially indicated, the subsequent events demonstrated a clear divergence from any meaningful commitment to peace. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, condemned the attacks, highlighting the direct targeting of civilian facilities, including a hospital in the Sumy region. The attacks were conducted with drones, and were wide spread across multiple Ukrainian regions. The actions by the Russian forces have been viewed by Ukrainian and several international leaders as a direct rejection of any real movement towards a full ceasefire. The discussions between Trump and Putin had centered on a proposed 30-day ceasefire, with a specific focus on halting attacks on critical energy infrastructure. However, the reality on the ground quickly contradicted any perceived progress. The attacks on the hospitals, in addition to other civilian targets, have raised serious concerns about the respect for international humanitarian law. The international community has responded with renewed calls for Russia to cease its attacks and engage in genuine peace negotiations. In addition to the hospital attacks, reports of drone strikes on oil depots within Russia, attributed to Ukrainian forces, have also surfaced, indicating a continued escalation of the conflict. The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides exchanging accusations and engaging in ongoing military actions. The attacks have caused damage to infrastructure, and have caused injuries to civilians. The Ukrainian President has stated that Ukraine will respond to these attacks, and that they will defend their nation.
Source - BBC


[attachment deleted by admin]