Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered a temporary halt to strikes on Kyiv for 72 hours, according to the Kremlin. This decision coincides with the arrival of U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner in Moscow to restart efforts to end Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The pause in strikes on Kyiv was announced by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who stated that the directive will be in effect for three days, commencing at midnight. The move is in preparation for Witkoff and Kushner’s scheduled visit to Kyiv on Sunday.
As tensions escalate with increased aerial attacks from both sides, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine announced a temporary halt to airstrikes during the envoys’ visit and called on Moscow to do the same.
Efforts to bring about peace have stalled, leading to intensified Russian attacks on Kyiv and other cities. These attacks have extended into daylight hours, exploiting Ukraine’s lack of air defense systems.
In a recent incident, a Russian drone targeted a significant government building in Kyiv, the headquarters of Ukraine’s Security Service, resulting in casualties. In response, Ukraine has retaliated with strikes on Russian military facilities and economic centers to weaken the Kremlin’s war efforts.
The ongoing air war between Russia and Ukraine has escalated, marked by the use of fast-flying drones by Russia. The sound of air-raid sirens has become a daily occurrence in Kyiv as both sides continue their military operations along the front line.
Zelenskyy condemned the recent Russian strikes on Kyiv and Boryspil international airports, linking them to the impending U.S. visit. He emphasized that Ukraine will adjust its operations in response to Russian aggression but reiterated a commitment to diplomatic efforts.
Further violence erupted in Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region, where Russian attacks claimed lives at an industrial facility, injuring several others. The conflict also extended to residential areas, causing destruction and casualties.
In response to the escalating situation, emergency services in Ukraine and Russia have been actively engaged in responding to attacks and ensuring the safety of civilians amid the ongoing hostilities. Both sides have reported casualties and damage from the recent clashes.