- Observers note that daytime strikes, once uncommon, are becoming more frequent
- Zelensky warned that prolonged instability could limit access to critical resources
- Drone attacks reportedly disrupted operations at a key port in Ust-Luga
Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of escalating hostilities during the Easter period instead of observing a ceasefire, following a fresh wave of large-scale drone and missile strikes across Ukraine.
Eko Hot Blog reports that at least six civilians were killed and about 40 others injured as hundreds of aerial attacks targeted multiple regions.
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Observers note that daytime strikes, once uncommon, are becoming more frequent.
The renewed bombardment comes as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, led by the United States, have stalled, with attention shifting toward tensions in the Middle East.
Despite the ongoing air assaults, Zelensky cited a British intelligence report indicating that conditions along the eastern frontline are currently more favourable for Ukraine than they have been in the past 10 months, with Russia’s ground advance appearing to slow.
However, the situation remains dire in several areas. In the Zhytomyr region, west of Kyiv, entire rows of houses were reduced to rubble, with rescue teams searching for survivors.
In the Kyiv region, a drone strike hit a residential building, sparking a fire, while in Kharkiv, one woman was killed and several others critically injured during what local authorities described as one of the city’s heaviest attacks.
Zelensky said the strikes appeared to be Moscow’s response to his proposal for a temporary Easter truce, noting that instead of a pause in hostilities, attacks had intensified.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces have also carried out strikes deep inside Russian territory, targeting energy infrastructure. Drone attacks reportedly disrupted operations at a key port in Ust-Luga, forcing a suspension of exports.
Additional strikes were reported in Togliatti and Taganrog, affecting industrial and energy facilities.
Zelensky maintained that the offer of a holiday ceasefire remains open if Russia agrees, adding that the proposal has been communicated to representatives of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Planned peace negotiations mediated by Washington have been postponed twice, with Moscow indicating that talks are currently on hold.
Zelensky has invited U.S. representatives to continue shuttle diplomacy between Kyiv and Moscow in an effort to revive discussions.
Concerns are also growing in Ukraine over the broader impact of global conflicts, particularly the Middle East crisis, which could affect fuel supplies and military support.
Zelensky warned that prolonged instability could limit access to critical resources, including defensive systems used to counter missile attacks.
While the frontline situation remains relatively stable, Ukraine’s current focus appears to be on maintaining its defensive positions rather than launching major offensives, as uncertainty continues to surround the prospects for peace.
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