Ukraine is facing a second consecutive day of intense Russian strikes, with reports of multiple attacks causing casualties and damage across the country. Overnight assaults involving drones and artillery resulted in one fatality and at least six injuries. The strikes also inflicted significant harm to the power grid and critical infrastructure, exacerbating the already dire situation.
The recent escalation in violence follows a troubling report from the United Nations, which revealed that May marked the deadliest month for Ukrainians in nearly a year. More than 170 civilians lost their lives last month, representing a 30% increase from April. Additionally, close to 700 individuals sustained injuries as a result of the heightened hostilities.
The surge in casualties has been primarily attributed to the mounting number of strikes in the Kharkiv region, where Russia initiated a fresh offensive last month. The ongoing conflict has taken a heavy toll on civilians, underscoring the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Amidst these developments, French President Emmanuel Macron has announced plans to provide support to Ukraine by commencing the training of Ukrainian pilots and mechanics in the near future. This commitment comes on the heels of Macron's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which he pledged to dispatch French fighter jets to Kyiv.