Ukraine
has launched a major attack deep inside Russia, hitting an airfield in the
Saratov region. This comes as both countries are trying to negotiate a temporary
cease-fire.
The
strike was aimed at the Engels airfield, an important base for Russia's
long-range bombers. The attack caused explosions and a significant fire in an
area believed to hold weapons. Videos shared by The New York Times showed thick
smoke rising from the site. The governor of Saratov, Roman Busargin, confirmed
that civilian homes were damaged and that evacuations were taking place due to
the ongoing fires at the airfield.
This
attack followed a conversation between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky
and U.S. President Donald Trump. During that call, Ukraine agreed in principle
to a Russian proposal for a temporary pause in strikes on energy
infrastructure. However, the specifics of the deal are still being worked out,
and both sides continued their military operations overnight.
Russia
reported that they intercepted 54 Ukrainian drones over the Saratov region, but
some managed to hit their targets. In response, Russia launched a large-scale
drone attack, sending 171 drones towards Ukrainian cities. Ukrainian forces
said they intercepted 63 of these drones, but several still struck civilian
areas, including the city of Odesa, resulting in damage to homes, shopping
centers, and public utilities. Tragically, five people were reported dead, with
many others injured.
Despite
the discussions for a potential cease-fire, Zelensky urged caution, noting that
Russian attacks continue relentlessly. He warned that "up to a hundred
drones and missile attacks" occur every day and night, emphasizing that
Russia's actions reveal its lack of commitment to peace.
Diplomatic
talks are set to continue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where representatives from
both Russia and Ukraine will have separate meetings with U.S. officials next
week. The Kremlin confirmed that Russian officials will meet with their
American counterparts to discuss the cease-fire proposal in more detail.
As the
situation remains tense on the battlefield, the path to a lasting peace
agreement looks uncertain. Until clear terms are agreed upon, both sides appear
ready to keep exchanging fire, testing the limits of diplomacy and their
military capabilities.