Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has made a plea for more long-range weapons after a recent deadly Russian strike in the town of Vilniansk, near the city of Zaporizhzhia. The attack resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including two children, and left 31 others injured, according to Ukrainian officials. Zelensky expressed the urgent need for enhanced defense capabilities to combat daily Russian strikes, emphasizing the importance of destroying Russian missile launchers, utilizing long-range weapons, and increasing modern air defense systems.
In response to the escalating conflict, Western allies have provided Ukraine with long-range weapons such as Scalp missiles from France, Storm Shadow from the UK, ATACMS from the US, and Patriot air defense systems. Zelensky’s call for additional support comes amidst growing tensions, with the Kremlin declining to comment on President Donald Trump’s assertion during a recent US presidential debate that he could help resolve the war in Ukraine if re-elected.
The ongoing conflict has seen Russian forces occupying villages in Ukraine’s Donetsk region, including Spirne and Novooleksandrivka, as reported by the Russian news agency RIA. Additionally, recent reports highlight a disturbing new tactic employed by Russian soldiers, utilizing motorcycles to speed through Ukrainian territory and engage in drive-by attacks, avoiding heavily mined areas that could be triggered by traditional armored vehicles. These motorcycle tactics have accounted for a significant portion of attacks in certain regions, demonstrating the evolving nature of the conflict.
As the situation continues to escalate, Zelensky remains dedicated to securing the release of civilians held captive in Russia and Belarus, with 10 individuals recently returned to Ukraine after years in captivity. The exchange of detainees underscores the complexities of the conflict and the continued efforts to navigate diplomatic solutions amidst ongoing hostilities. The conflict in Ukraine remains fluid, with civilians and military personnel on both sides affected by the violence and seeking a path towards peace.