Russia's Willingness to Negotiate Dependent on Victory in War, Says EU Official
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell expressed his belief that Russia will only engage in negotiations if it achieves victory in the conflict in Ukraine. Speaking at an event in Barcelona, Borrell stated that he was not optimistic about the potential outcomes this summer, emphasizing Russia's clear intention to emerge victorious. According to Borrell, "Russia will not enter into negotiations unless it secures victory in the war."
Zelenskyy Aide Describes Current Situation as One of the Worst Days in the War
A foreign policy adviser has described the present day as one of the most severe for Ukraine during the ongoing war, following a fresh wave of Russian air strikes. The capital city of Kyiv experienced an overnight bombardment, with the majority of missiles and drones reportedly intercepted by Ukraine's defense forces. The attacks continued in the morning with Russia launching cruise and ballistic missiles. Ihor Zhovkva, deputy head of the Ukrainian president's office, referred to these recent attacks as "appalling." He highlighted that such events are part of their daily reality, expressing concerns that similar incidents may occur again. When asked about Moscow's targeting of Kyiv instead of military objectives, Zhovkva explained that Russian forces are attacking civilian areas to impede Ukraine's planned actions on the battlefield, likely referring to an anticipated counteroffensive.
Kyiv Metro Serves as Shelter Amid Air Strikes
As multiple air raid sirens warn of potential attacks, residents of Kyiv have sought refuge in the city's underground metro stations. Russian forces launched a new missile strike on the Ukrainian capital, prompting people to run for cover. Video footage captured by Ukraine's state broadcaster Suspilne provides a glimpse into life below ground as the sirens blare.
Damage to Ukrainian Military Assets Indicates Russian Target
In a rare admission, Ukraine acknowledged that several of its aircraft had been taken out of action by Russia's military. Efforts are underway to restore a runway in the western region of Khmelnitskiy. While details about the incident remain limited, it is unclear whether the damaged aircraft are civilian or military, as Ukraine has not disclosed this information or identified the specific site. Military analyst Sean Bell suggests that Russia is unlikely to target a civilian airfield and speculates that a major Ukrainian air force base at Starokostiantyniv, housing advanced fighter jets such as the Mig-29, is the probable military target for Russia. Bell explains that Ukraine typically aims to relocate or conceal its military capabilities, but airfields are challenging to hide due to their static nature. He adds that while storing jets on an open plain facilitates servicing and refueling, it also makes them vulnerable. Aircraft positioned inside berms are not protected from direct aerial attacks but can find shelter from nearby shelling, whereas reinforced aircraft shelters provide the highest level of safety. The provided image of the Starokostiantyniv base illustrates all three measures.