Yesterday, Russia launched a large-scale combined airstrike on Ukraine’s energy system, coinciding with a so-called week-long energy truce suggested by US President Donald Trump and promised by Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Following the attack, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called on Trump to respond, alleging Putin had deceived him. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Trump ally, advocated supplying Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles.
Western pressure on Russia aimed at forcing negotiations has so far failed, as attacks continue. After the latest strikes, calls mount for increased Western support, particularly in the form of advanced weaponry.
Meanwhile, Russian propagandists accused Ukraine of violating the truce, although Kyiv did not conduct strikes on Russian territory during this period. Russia reportedly used the pause to prepare further attacks against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visited Kyiv, discussed security guarantees for Ukraine, and was briefed on damaged energy facilities. According to the Financial Times, any Russian violation of a peace deal could lead to a coordinated European and US military response within 72 hours. Russia, however, remains opposed to such guarantees and maintains maximalist objectives toward Ukraine.
The civilian toll, ongoing shelling, and infrastructure destruction continue to create severe challenges for Ukraine. Western partners keep sending technical and military aid, including drones, to front-line units. Ukrainian defenders express gratitude and encourage continued support from civic organizations and volunteers.
The author urges not to place unrealistic hopes on world leaders or external guarantees but to focus on supporting Ukraine’s Armed Forces and each other, as the Russian-Ukrainian war persists.
