Credited from: NEWSWEEK
Ukraine has rejected Russia's unilateral declaration of a three-day ceasefire, with Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga calling it a "farce." Reports indicate that from midnight to midday on the first day of the ceasefire, Russian forces committed 734 violations and executed 63 assaults. Despite claims of a ceasefire from Russia, Ukraine maintained that hostilities continue unabated, particularly in the northeastern Sumy region, where significant fighting was reported during the supposed truce, according to Indiatimes and Reuters.
Specifically, the Ukrainian military noted that there were 162 clashes and 22 airstrikes logged within just 24 hours of the ceasefire being put into effect, underscoring the intensity of ongoing operations amidst the declared truce. Ukrainian officials reported that three civilians were killed in the Sumy region alone during this period, illustrating the severe impacts of the conflict, according to Reuters and Newsweek.
Moreover, U.S. officials have voiced concerns regarding a possible significant Russian military assault during the declared ceasefire period, asserting that the ceasefire was insincere. The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv cautioned civilians to remain vigilant for potential attacks as the situation unfolds. This warning comes as Russian forces allegedly shelled Ukrainian territory nearly 1,500 times and made claims of Ukrainian forces attempting to breach Russian borders, indicating a highly volatile situation, according to Newsweek.
The conflict continues to escalate with both sides accusing one another of extensive violations, and heavy fighting persists despite the truce declared to honor Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. As the situation develops, international observers remain focused on the implications of these hostilities and the potential for further escalations in the region, as detailed by Indiatimes, Reuters, and Newsweek.