Despite a Kremlin-declared three-day ceasefire, Ukrainian officials reported continued Russian attacks along the front line, including artillery fire and aerial strikes resulting in civilian casualties. A National Guard commander expressed deep skepticism regarding Russia’s intentions, citing past instances where ceasefires were used to resupply and reposition troops. Evidence suggests ongoing Russian troop and equipment movements near the front, reinforcing doubts about the sincerity of the declared pause in hostilities. The commander drew parallels to the 2014 annexation of Crimea, highlighting a pattern of Russian deception.
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Following a massive Russian aerial assault on April 24th, resulting in numerous civilian casualties across Ukraine, including eight deaths in Kyiv, Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha urged increased pressure on Russia to secure peace. He directly countered claims of Ukrainian intransigence in peace negotiations, asserting that Russia’s maximalist demands and brutal attacks demonstrate their unwillingness to pursue genuine peace. Sybiha emphasized that the focus of international pressure should be on Moscow, not Kyiv, to end the ongoing conflict. He concluded that only strength and pressure, not appeasement, will deter further Russian aggression.
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A large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv on April 24th involved Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles, Caliber cruise missiles, and Shahed drones, resulting in widespread damage and casualties. At least nine fatalities and 70 injuries were reported, with numerous civilians hospitalized, including children. The assault targeted civilian infrastructure, with additional missile strikes reported in Kharkiv and Pavlohrad. The ongoing attacks highlight the persistent threat to Ukrainian civilians.
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A Russian missile strike on Sumy, Ukraine, killed over 30 civilians and injured nearly 100 more during Palm Sunday celebrations. European leaders, including Ursula von der Leyen and Emmanuel Macron, strongly condemned the attack, characterizing it as a barbaric act of aggression violating international law. The attack follows a similar large-scale civilian casualty incident in Kryvyi Rih earlier this month, highlighting the escalating conflict and the challenges in achieving a lasting ceasefire. Global leaders called for a stronger response to Russia’s actions and emphasized the need to end the ongoing war.
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Keith Kellogg’s suggestion that Ukraine could be divided like post-World War II Berlin is a deeply problematic proposal, sparking outrage and disbelief across the board. The immediate reaction from many is one of profound shock and anger. Dividing a nation currently under brutal invasion is seen as an act of appalling disregard for Ukrainian sovereignty and the suffering inflicted upon its people.
The comparison to Berlin is particularly flawed. Germany was divided after a war it instigated and lost, resulting in its defeat and occupation. Ukraine, on the other hand, is the victim of unprovoked aggression, defending its territory against a full-scale invasion.… Continue reading
In the month following Ukraine’s unconditional acceptance of a US-proposed ceasefire on March 11th, Russia launched a relentless assault, firing nearly 70 missiles, over 2,200 Shahed drones, and more than 6,000 guided aerial bombs. This escalation, rejecting peace proposals, underscores Russia’s continued commitment to war and its disregard for civilian lives. International condemnation, including from French President Macron and former US President Trump, followed the attacks, highlighting Russia’s obstruction of peace efforts. The Ukrainian government urges increased international pressure on Russia to compel a genuine commitment to peace.
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Moldova’s president has leveled strong criticism against Russia, characterizing its actions as “unacceptable interference” in the country’s affairs. This isn’t a new accusation; Russia’s history of aggression against Moldova, spanning over a century, speaks volumes. The situation highlights a long-standing pattern of Russian influence and control, particularly in the breakaway region of Transnistria.
The president’s condemnation underscores the deeply ingrained issues stemming from Russia’s persistent attempts to exert its will over Moldova’s sovereignty. The ongoing presence of Russian forces and the significant level of Russian control in Transnistria represent a direct challenge to Moldova’s independence and territorial integrity. This isn’t just a recent development; it’s part of a broader strategy.… Continue reading
For the first time since joining NATO in March 2024, Sweden has deployed six Jas 39 Gripen fighter jets to Poland for an alliance airspace surveillance mission. These aircraft, specifically designed to counter Russian Sukhoi jets, are based from civilian roads, offering a strategic advantage against potential Russian aggression. This deployment signifies Sweden’s proactive role in bolstering NATO’s eastern flank and reflects the growing concern among alliance members regarding potential Russian aggression in the region. The Gripen’s unique capabilities, including its adaptability and lower maintenance needs, are considered highly valuable in this context.
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Russia firmly rejects transferring control of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), Europe’s largest, to Ukraine or any other entity. The Russian foreign ministry declared the plant’s integration into the Russian nuclear industry as inevitable, dismissing any joint operational model or return to Ukrainian control. Prior to the March 2022 Russian occupation, the ZNPP, located in Enerhodar, supplied 20% of Ukraine’s electricity. The plant remains non-operational following the occupation.
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During a Singapore press conference, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot firmly countered recent US statements downplaying Russian aggression in Europe. Barrot characterized Russian actions as “very factual,” citing ongoing destabilizing activities beyond Ukraine, including information manipulation and sabotage. He stressed the need for deterrence to achieve peace, a stance contrasting with the US’s current approach of seeking mediation between Russia and Ukraine. Barrot’s comments precede a Paris meeting of Ukraine coalition leaders and a continuation of his regional diplomatic tour to Indonesia and China.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood