Ukraine responds as Russia escalates attacks; EU membership discussions underway
The Russians are widening their operations in Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned that during March, the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions faced severe attacks. In less than three weeks, about 200 Russian-guided missiles hit the Sumy region in the northeast of Ukraine.
Zelensky pointed out that the Sumy region shares a border with Russia. "The Russian army is attempting to obliterate our border villages. They are targeting civilian infrastructures," he declared in a video posted on Tuesday evening.
The Ukrainian President believes the best response to Russian assaults in this region is to boost missile defence capabilities.
Zelensky also shared that "significant European decisions" are anticipated this year. He mentioned ongoing discussions with Brussels about easing trade restrictions between Ukraine and the European Union. "This is a crucial aspect for the stability of our economy during the conflict," he stressed.
Zelensky further hinted that in June, decisions about Ukraine’s EU membership might be forthcoming.
Russian correspondents report: "It's a large-scale operation"
In the meantime, intense combat is underway in Russia's Belgorod region. Since March 12, the area has been under attack by Russian partisans allied with Ukraine. 16 people have been killed, and 98 others injured.
"It’s not merely a skirmish with a sabotage group, but a comprehensive military operation, involving planes, artillery, tanks, and numerous drones," report Russian war correspondents.
Russian leader Vladimir Putin, in a speech to the Federal Security Service (FSB) board, urged the agency to track down "the traitors" joining the saboteurs.
- I request you to remember their identities and expose them. We will hold them accountable indefinitely, wherever they may be - Putin stated.
Source: "Ukrainian Truth"
