In a compelling expression of concern, US President Donald Trump has voiced his displeasure over the tragic Russian missile strikes on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, while urging both parties to pursue a ceasefire. “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv,” Mr. Trump stated on social media, delivering a rare rebuke to Russian President Vladimir Putin. “Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Let’s get the Peace Deal DONE!”
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The renewed tension follows a harrowing overnight barrage where at least 12 lives were lost and around 70 people injured as Russia launched a number of missiles and drones at Kyiv. This marked yet another phase in the relentless hostilities that have characterized Russia’s invasion.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky remarked, “After the proposal from the United States, other papers appeared, and I believe that today, this format, this document, is on President Trump’s desk.” He emphasized the importance of adhering to Ukraine’s values and constitution, stating, “Anything that contradicts our values or our constitution cannot be included in any agreement.” This statement came amid his trip to South Africa, which he cut short following the latest attack, reportedly involving a North Korean KN-23 ballistic missile.
This latest wave of violence has raised further questions about the US’s efforts to mediate between the warring nations. Hours prior to the attacks, President Trump criticized Mr. Zelensky for rejecting Moscow’s occupation of Crimea as part of the peace negotiations. Mr. Zelensky firmly responded, asserting that there was no indication of the Trump administration exerting substantial pressure on Russia to cease its aggression.
During a joint appearance with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Mr. Zelensky noted that Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate after a ceasefire represents a significant concession on Kyiv’s part. Mr. Ramaphosa acknowledged Zelensky’s efforts, stating, “It is commendable that he is open to discussing an unconditional ceasefire to pave the way for peace talks.”
French President Emmanuel Macron has also weighed in, asserting that it is unreasonable to expect Mr. Zelensky to agree to ceasefire terms while Kyiv endures bombardment. He urged President Putin, saying, “Stop lying.” Meanwhile, Putin has yet to respond to Zelensky’s proposal to completely halt air attacks against civilians and recently dismissed a US-Ukrainian call for an unconditional ceasefire.
Reflecting on the ongoing violence, Mr. Zelensky noted, “It has been 44 days since Ukraine agreed to a full ceasefire and a halt to strikes… And it has been 44 days of Russia continuing to kill our people.” The stark reality of civilian casualties was echoed by Olena Davydiuk, a 33-year-old lawyer in Kyiv, who described witnessing windows shatter and doors come off their hinges as a result of the ongoing strikes.
Amid this turmoil, rescue workers have been tirelessly working through the ruins, suggesting that survivors might still be trapped beneath the debris. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko stated, “Phone calls can be heard from under the rubble – the search will continue until we are confident that we have found everyone,” adding that two children remain unaccounted for.
It’s essential to recognize that Russia has intensified its aerial assaults on Ukraine, demonstrating a blatant disregard for Trump’s calls for de-escalation. Andriy Yermak, a senior advisor to President Zelensky, succinctly stated, “Putin shows only a desire to kill.”
As the crisis unfolds, Mr. Trump had earlier claimed that a peace deal was “very close,” yet he expressed his frustrations regarding negotiation hurdles posed by Mr. Zelensky. He characterized the Ukrainian president’s stance as one that “will do nothing but prolong the ‘killing field.'”
In a separate but equally alarming incident, Russia launched a significant assault on Kharkiv, targeting a densely populated residential area. City Mayor Igor Terekhov reported at least seven missile strikes during the attack.
In response to these escalating hostilities, Taoiseach Micheál Martin condemned the attacks on Kyiv, stating, “The targeting of civilians has to stop. It’s time for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine.” He echoed the urgency of addressing the ongoing violence and called for an end to the suffering.
I condemn Russia’s latest missile and drone strikes on Kyiv that have left nine civilians dead and injured many more. The targeting of civilians has to stop. It’s time for a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine.
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) April 24, 2025
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
