Ukraine to persist with military actions unless Russia suspends offensive operations, assures Zelenskyy
In a bold move, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that a surprise drone operation against Russia over the weekend has been a success and will continue if Moscow fails to halt its offensive. Speaking after the latest round of U.S.-brokered peace talks in Istanbul, Zelenskyy stated that Russia's attack on Ukraine the previous night, involving over 480 drones, was a daily occurrence.
Zelenskyy addressed the media following the meetings between Ukrainian and Russian delegations, aimed at ending Russia's 3-year-old invasion of Ukraine. The talks came just one day after Ukraine launched an audacious drone attack on Russia's strategic bomber fleet. When asked by our Chief Global Affairs Correspondent Martha Raddatz if the attacks had changed the dynamics of the war and whether they might provoke Russia, Zelenskyy responded nonchalantly, stating that Ukraine was unconcerned about Russia's anger.
Zelenskyy referred to the drone attack as a "strategic operation" that has "definitely reduced Russia's potential, and demonstrates that Ukraine is working on certain steps." The president emphasized that if Russia does not stop its attacks, Ukraine will continue with similar operations.
Asked about President Donald Trump's administration's involvement, Zelenskyy expressed his expectation for strong support from the U.S., particularly in the form of sanctions and military aid, to force Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the war. Monday's talks, however, have so far failed to reach a peace deal or even achieve a sustained ceasefire, despite pressure from the U.S. administration.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry confirmed that talks resumed at Istanbul's Ciragan Palace, ending over an hour later. According to Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, both sides agreed to swap all severely wounded and ill prisoners of war and to exchange the bodies of thousands of fallen soldiers. They also discussed a meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin.
Ukraine is calling for a full 30-day ceasefire during which negotiations can take place. Russia has refused the request, with Putin and his top officials maintaining maximalist war goals dating back to the opening days of the Russian invasion. Among the Kremlin's demands are the annexation of four Ukrainian regions, the retention of Crimea, Ukrainian demilitarization, and a permanent block on the country's accession to NATO.
1.zone1 The unexpected drone operation by Ukraine against Russia, as mentioned by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, could be considered a significant event in the realm of general news and international politics, as it potentially impacts the dynamics of war and conflicts.
2.zone2 In the context of war-and-conflicts, the drone attack carried out by Ukraine can also be viewed as a response to Russia's aggression, which has been an alarming occurrence in Ukraine's 3-year-old invasion. The attack is one of the strategic moves aimed at halting Russia's offensive.
3.zone3 Amidst concerns about international politics and Russia's actions, the eventual repercussions of Ukraine's drone attack might extend to other aspects, including video evidence, possibly offering a vivid depiction of the ongoing conflict. This footage could be considered part of the wider category of news gatherings, including war events and domestic struggles, that contribute to the broad spectrum of international news coverage.
