Russian forces have intensified their attacks on Ukraine, particularly targeting the Dnipropetrovsk region. The industrial city of Samar was hit by missiles on Friday, marking the second such assault in just three days. This latest attack resulted in the deaths of five people and left 23 others injured, according to regional governor Sergiy Lysak.
The missile strikes occurred in southeastern Samar, located near Dnipro, the main city of the region. Among the injured, at least four individuals are in critical condition and have been hospitalized. Earlier this week, missile attacks on both Dnipro and Samar had already claimed 23 lives, as Russian forces sought to establish a stronger presence in Dnipropetrovsk for the first time in over three years.
Details about the damage in Samar remain scarce, but an earlier strike on Tuesday had targeted an unidentified infrastructure facility, resulting in two fatalities. Meanwhile, in Kharkiv, another region in Ukraine, Russian attacks led to one death and three injuries.
In the Kherson region, authorities warned residents to prepare for extended power outages after a Russian strike hit a key energy facility. Governor Oleksandr Prokudin stated that the attacks aimed to plunge the region into darkness.
The Ukrainian air force reported that Russia launched a significant number of drones and missiles overnight, with air defenses managing to intercept most of them. However, Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed to have downed 39 Ukrainian drones across several regions.
In a surprising twist, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced intentions to reduce military spending, citing budgetary pressures. He also expressed a willingness to engage in new peace negotiations with Ukraine, potentially in Istanbul, although no specific details have been confirmed. Putin acknowledged the stark differences between the peace proposals from both sides but emphasized the importance of dialogue to bridge those gaps.
In the backdrop of these military developments, former U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at possible progress in resolving the conflict, suggesting that discussions with Putin could lead to a breakthrough.
As the situation unfolds, the humanitarian impact remains severe, with civilians bearing the brunt of the ongoing violence. The attacks in Dnipropetrovsk highlight the escalating tensions and the urgent need for a lasting resolution to the conflict.