Russian Strikes Kill Six in Ukraine, Trump Questions Summit Plans

Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukraine resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including two children, and caused widespread power outages across the nation. The attacks, which occurred on March 13, 2024, have heightened tensions as discussions for a summit between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin faced setbacks after Moscow rejected calls for a ceasefire.

The Ukrainian emergency service reported two fatalities in Kyiv, while four others lost their lives in the surrounding region due to the strikes. The attacks, involving a combination of ballistic missiles and drones, targeted energy infrastructure and ignited fires in multiple districts of Ukraine’s capital. Timur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, described the scene as debris from downed weapons littered the city, leading to significant damage.

Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, criticized Russia’s actions, stating, “Ukraine long ago agreed to the U.S. proposal for a ceasefire, while Moscow is doing everything to keep the killing going.” He emphasized the need for the international community to take stronger collective action against Putin to halt the violence.

The Russian attacks continued throughout the night, with ten people rescued from a fire in a high-rise building in the Dniprovskyi district, as reported by Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Emergency power outages were implemented across much of the country, affecting Kyiv and surrounding regions, due to damage inflicted on energy facilities.

In the central region of Poltava, oil and gas facilities were also reported damaged following the attacks. In the southeastern region of Zaporizhzhia, regional governor Ivan Fedorov confirmed that 13 people sustained injuries due to overnight assaults, underscoring the ongoing threat faced by residents in frontline areas.

Despite the escalating violence, discussions for a potential summit between Trump and Putin remain in limbo. Trump stated he did not want to engage in a “wasted meeting,” hinting at possible developments in the coming days. Meanwhile, Kirill Dmitriev, Putin’s investment envoy, noted on social media that “preparations continue” for the summit.

The Kremlin reiterated its long-standing demands for a peace deal, which include Ukraine ceding more territory before any ceasefire can be agreed upon. A private communique, known as a “non-paper,” outlining these terms was sent to the United States over the weekend, according to US officials.

The recent attack is part of Russia’s ongoing strategy to undermine Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, especially as winter approaches. The barrage on March 12 had already left four dead and caused extensive power outages, reflecting a broader campaign to disrupt the nation’s energy resources.

As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the safety and well-being of Ukrainian citizens. The need for diplomatic engagement remains crucial as both sides grapple with the complex dynamics of the conflict.