Ukraine Accuses Russia of Targeting Critical Infrastructure Amid Ceasefire Talks
Published 7 March 2025
Highlights
- Ukraine's President Zelensky accuses Russia of targeting critical infrastructure, with nearly 70 missiles and 200 drones used in recent strikes.
- The attacks coincide with the US halting intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, impacting Kyiv's defensive capabilities.
- Zelensky emphasizes the need for "silence in the skies" as a first step towards peace, with ongoing ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia.
- French-supplied Mirage 2000 and F-16 jets have been effective in intercepting Russian cruise missiles.
- The Kremlin warns of potential responses to EU's military expansion, viewing it as positioning Russia as an adversary.
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of deliberately targeting infrastructure essential for daily life. This accusation follows a series of intense strikes that saw nearly 70 missiles and 200 drones deployed against Ukraine's energy and gas facilities. The attacks, which also hit residential areas in Kharkiv, have left several people injured.
Impact of US Intelligence Withdrawal
The strikes come at a crucial time as the United States has recently ceased intelligence-sharing with Ukraine, a move that had previously provided Kyiv with advance warnings of impending attacks. This development coincides with a Ukrainian delegation's preparations to meet US counterparts in Saudi Arabia for ceasefire discussions. The cessation of intelligence-sharing has raised concerns about Ukraine's ability to defend itself effectively against Russian aggression.
Zelensky's Call for Peace
President Zelensky has reiterated Ukraine's commitment to peace, stating that the first steps towards achieving it must include "silence in the skies" and "silence at sea." He expressed gratitude to France for supplying Mirage 2000 and F-16 jets, which have been instrumental in intercepting Russian cruise missiles. Zelensky is set to travel to Saudi Arabia to engage in further peace talks, emphasizing Ukraine's readiness to pursue a peaceful resolution from the onset of the conflict.
EU's Military Expansion and Kremlin's Response
Meanwhile, the Kremlin has expressed concerns over the European Union's discussions on enhancing its military capabilities, interpreting it as a move to position Russia as a primary adversary. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that Russia is closely monitoring these developments and may respond accordingly.
What this might mean
The ongoing ceasefire talks in Saudi Arabia could potentially pave the way for a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, although the cessation of US intelligence-sharing poses significant challenges for Ukraine's defense strategy. The effectiveness of French-supplied fighter jets in intercepting Russian missiles highlights the importance of international military support for Ukraine. However, the Kremlin's apprehension towards the EU's military expansion suggests that geopolitical tensions may continue to escalate, potentially complicating peace efforts. As negotiations progress, the international community will be closely watching for any shifts in the dynamics of the Russia-Ukraine war.
