Kyiv, May 20 (H.S.): After the phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky aimed at halting the war, Ukraine faced immediate drone strikes from Russia. Contrary to Ukraine’s hopes that Russian aggression would ease, the attacks surged right after the conversation. Reports from Ukrainian outlets indicate at least one civilian death and 13 injuries from the Russian onslaught, which includes daily airstrikes and drone assaults on various Ukrainian locations. Ukraine’s air defense successfully intercepted 35 of 108 drones in one night, with an additional 58 neutralized mid-air. Regional officials reported casualties across several cities: a fatality in Siversk, injuries in Kramatorsk, Lyman, and Kostiantynivka, and two women hurt in Starovirivka. In Kherson Oblast, five civilians were wounded.

Damage reports included a high-rise building, homes, a cell tower, and vehicles. A drone also struck the border areas of Sumy Oblast, damaging a residential building. Trump’s conversation with Putin left him contemplating the potential for change, stating he might withdraw from mediation if Putin doesn’t shift his stance. Meanwhile, Putin reiterated Russia’s commitment to addressing the fundamental issues causing the conflict. Amidst this turmoil, Zelensky emphasized the urgency of the moment, urging for genuine negotiations and expressing Ukraine’s readiness for an unconditional ceasefire, hoping for a breakthrough in diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar