Russia launched a widespread aerial assault on Ukraine on Sunday, , targeting infrastructure and residential areas just days before the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion. The attacks, involving nearly 50 missiles and 297 drones according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, came as international efforts to broker a peace settlement appear to be faltering.
Zelenskyy stated that while a “significant proportion” of the incoming projectiles were intercepted, the strikes caused widespread damage, including the complete destruction of a residential building in the Kyiv suburb of Sofiivska Borshchahivka. One man was killed and a dozen others, including four children, were injured across the country. The attacks targeted not only energy facilities, but also logistical infrastructure, including railways and municipal water supplies, Zelenskyy said.
The escalation in hostilities follows recent U.S.-mediated peace talks in Geneva, which Ukrainian officials described as “uneven” and accused Moscow of attempting to prolong negotiations without genuine commitment to a resolution. The Kremlin continues to demand that Ukraine formally cede territory in the eastern Donbas region, a condition Kyiv has repeatedly rejected as non-negotiable.
The renewed Russian offensive coincides with growing diplomatic tensions for Ukraine. Both Slovakia and Hungary are raising concerns over energy supplies and potential disruptions to European Union sanctions against Moscow. Budapest is threatening to block a new EU sanctions package, while Bratislava has announced it will halt electricity supplies to Ukraine on , unless oil shipments through the Druzhba pipeline – which crosses Ukrainian territory – are resumed.
Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó asserted that Ukraine is delaying repairs to the Druzhba pipeline, which was reportedly damaged in a Russian drone attack in January. Szijjártó stated that Hungary will not approve decisions favorable to Ukraine until oil shipments resume. Similarly, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico accused Zelenskyy of “malicious” behavior, citing logistical difficulties and financial losses resulting from the halted oil flow.
The situation in Lviv, in western Ukraine, is particularly concerning. Officials are investigating a large explosion on Sunday night as a terrorist incident. A police officer was killed and 25 others were injured, with 14 requiring hospitalization. Reports suggest a break-in preceded the blast, followed by a second explosion seemingly intended to target first responders. Ukrainian law enforcement agencies have made arrests in connection with the incident.
Despite the ongoing conflict and the challenges in achieving a diplomatic breakthrough, Zelenskyy maintains that Ukraine is not losing ground. In a recent interview, he highlighted that Ukrainian forces have reclaimed approximately 116 square miles (300 square kilometers) of territory in the southern Zaporizhzhia oblast. However, Russia continues to make incremental gains, particularly in the east, and has reportedly suffered significant casualties – estimated at 1.2 million soldiers killed or injured.
The international community continues to call for a cessation of hostilities. Pope Leo XIV, speaking on Sunday, described peace in Ukraine as an “urgent necessity” and urged all parties to prioritize dialogue and responsible decision-making. He reiterated his appeal for an immediate ceasefire and a commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The current impasse underscores the deep divisions that remain between Russia and Ukraine, and the difficulties in achieving a lasting peace. While the United States continues to push for a settlement, the fundamental disagreements over territorial integrity and security guarantees present significant obstacles. The escalating tensions with neighboring countries further complicate the situation, raising concerns about the potential for wider regional instability.
The attacks on Sunday serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of the conflict, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence. As the fourth anniversary of the full-scale invasion approaches, the prospect of a swift resolution remains uncertain, and the need for continued international support for Ukraine is more pressing than ever.
