Moscow: Russia said on Saturday that its army had recaptured three villages occupied by Ukraine, in another setback for Kiev as the possibility of peace talks seems to be increasing. Days ahead of talks between US and Ukrainian negotiators on a ceasefire, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday demanded more sanctions on Russia as Russian troops' attack continued overnight, killing at least 14 people and injuring dozens.
Russian Attack in Dobropillia and Kharkiv
According to the ministry, Russian forces attacked Dobropillia with:
- Ballistic missiles
- Multiple rockets
- Drones
👉 Result of Attack in Dobropillia:
- 11 people died, including five children.
- 30 others were injured.
- 8 multi-storey buildings and 30 vehicles were damaged.
👉 Separate Attack in Kharkiv Region:
- Three civilians were killed.
- Seven were injured.
Zelensky's Demand for More Sanctions on Russia
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Facebook:
"Such attacks show that Russia's motives have not changed. Therefore, it is important to do everything possible to protect lives, strengthen our air defenses, and increase sanctions on Russia. Anything that helps Putin fund the war must collapse."
Zelensky also emphasized that the world needs to put pressure on Moscow to end the war.
US Suspends Military Aid After Oval Office Dispute
The airstrikes came as US President Donald Trump threatened to:
- Impose new sanctions on Russia.
- Reduce military aid to Ukraine.
👉 Following the public dispute between Donald Trump and Zelensky in the White House, the US suspended crucial military aid, including:
- Access to satellite imagery.
- Intelligence sharing.
This suspension of aid has made it more difficult for Ukraine to defend itself against Russian attacks.
Russia Recaptures Three Villages in Kursk
In another setback, Russia’s Defence Ministry on Saturday announced the capture of three more villages in the Kursk region, which were previously under Ukraine's control.
✅ The three villages recaptured are:
- Viktorovka
- Nikolayevka
- Staraya Sorochina
👉 With this victory, Russia is continuously gaining ground while Ukraine's defense is weakening due to lack of US military aid.
Zelensky Still Hopes for Peace Talks
Despite the military setbacks, Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed hope that:
- Peace talks in Saudi Arabia may bring a positive outcome.
- US and Ukrainian officials may discuss a ceasefire agreement.
However, Russia's rapid capture of villages has weakened Ukraine's position in upcoming talks.
Current Situation at a Glance
Region Situation Control Status
Dobropillia 11 killed, 30 injured, buildings destroyed Under Ukraine Control
Kharkiv 3 killed, 7 injured Under Ukraine Control
Kursk Region 3 villages recaptured by Russia Partial Russian Control
Conclusion
The situation is becoming worse for Ukraine as Russia continues to advance in the Kursk region. With the suspension of US military aid, Ukraine is now struggling to defend its territory. On the other hand, Russia is strengthening its position, and with the upcoming peace talks in Saudi Arabia, it remains to be seen whether a ceasefire agreement can be achieved or Russia continues its occupation.
