Six Dead in Russian Airstrikes Amid Escalating Ukraine Conflict
At least six civilians were killed in Russian airstrikes on eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region, just hours after reports emerged that former U.S. President Donald Trump shelved plans for talks with Vladimir Putin. The attack, which struck residential areas in Pokrovsk, has intensified global condemnation as the war enters a critical phase.
Civilian Casualties Mount in Latest Russian Strikes
Ukrainian officials confirmed that Russian forces targeted a residential building in Pokrovsk, leaving six dead and over a dozen wounded, including women and children. Emergency crews worked overnight to rescue survivors amid collapsed structures and burning debris.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, calling it “another act of Russian terror” and vowing continued resistance. The strikes coincide with a renewed Russian offensive in eastern Ukraine, where Moscow aims to solidify gains before winter.
Trump’s Scrapped Plan for Putin Talks Sparks Debate
The airstrikes followed reports that Trump, the 2024 GOP frontrunner, abandoned efforts to arrange talks with Putin due to potential political fallout. Sources suggest Trump sought to mediate Ukraine peace talks but faced bipartisan backlash over concerns of undermining U.S. support for Kyiv.
“Russia’s timing is deliberate,” a Ukrainian intelligence official stated anonymously. “They’re signaling that diplomacy won’t stop their aggression.”
International Condemnation and Kremlin Denials
NATO’s Jens Stoltenberg labeled the strikes a “war crime,” while the U.S. reaffirmed military aid to Ukraine. The Kremlin denied targeting civilians, repeating unfounded claims that Ukraine uses human shields—a narrative Kyiv calls disinformation.
What’s Next for Ukraine and Russia?
With Ukraine’s counteroffensive facing stiff resistance and Russia escalating attacks, prospects for peace remain dim. Civilian deaths highlight the war’s brutal toll as geopolitical tensions deepen.
Stay with NextMinuteNews for real-time updates on this unfolding crisis.
