Zelenskyy Slams Russia's 'Utter Cynicism' as Strikes Kill 22 Before Ceasefire

Ukraine is reeling from a brutal wave of Russian drone and missile attacks that claimed at least 22 lives and injured over 80 people, occurring just hours before Kyiv was set to implement a ceasefire and days before Moscow's own pause in hostilities. The strikes, which hit cities including Kramatorsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Chernihiv, underscore the relentless nature of the conflict and Russia's apparent disregard for humanitarian considerations.

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Russia could cease fire at any moment, and this would stop the war and our responses

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy vehemently condemned Russia's actions, labeling them as "utter cynicism." He highlighted that Russia could cease fire at any moment, thereby ending the war, but instead chose to escalate attacks. Zelenskyy's statement reflects Ukraine's frustration with Russia's selective ceasefire announcements, which appear to be more about propaganda than a genuine desire for peace. Ukraine, he asserted, will respond in kind, emphasizing the need for real steps towards peace rather than mere declarations.

Russia's announcement of a unilateral ceasefire for Victory Day (May 9) is viewed with deep skepticism in Ukraine. Moscow stated it would retaliate if Ukraine disrupted its May 9 events. This move is seen as an attempt to project an image of peacemaking while continuing military operations. Meanwhile, Ukraine has continued its long-range attacks, targeting Russian energy facilities and infrastructure in an effort to disrupt Moscow's war economy, demonstrating its resolve to defend itself.

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Peace is needed and real steps are needed to achieve it. Ukraine will act in kind.

The attacks have also heavily targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure, with state energy company Naftogaz reporting numerous attacks on its facilities. President Zelenskyy specifically denounced an attack in Poltava as "especially vile" because a second missile was launched at the same location while emergency rescuers were present. This highlights the brutal tactics employed by Russia, which often disregard civilian safety and emergency response efforts. The ongoing conflict continues to inflict immense suffering on the Ukrainian population, with critical infrastructure and civilian areas frequently becoming targets.

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especially vile