Kazakhstan's president, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the Ukraine war during a summit in Siberia's Omsk. This comes as Ukraine launched fresh strikes, including drone attacks on a Siberian oil refinery and a military factory in the Kirov region. The strikes follow increased Ukrainian attacks targeting Russia's war effort. Meanwhile, the UN has warned of rising civilian deaths in the ongoing conflict.
Fresh Strikes and Civilian Casualties
In recent attacks, Ukrainian drones struck a Siberian oil refinery, setting it ablaze. Additionally, a Ukrainian strike on the Azov Sea town of Kyrylivka killed 12 people, including four children, according to Russian-installed authorities. Ukraine has not commented on this specific strike but has increased its attacks in the region. Kyiv reported that Russian attacks killed five people in eastern and southern Ukraine, with two crew members missing after a strike on a cargo ship carrying corn.
Kazakh Leader's Call for Peace
During the Russia-Kazakh summit in Omsk, Tokayev told Putin that the Ukraine war should end, calling it a shame that young people are dying. He suggested the conflict should be 'frozen' and proposed a return to Istanbul talks before moving towards a long-awaited peace. Putin responded that he would inform Tokayev on 'the details' of the war, though he has repeatedly stated Moscow's intention to take the rest of eastern Ukraine by force.
Impact on Russia and Ukraine
The strikes have caused nationwide fuel shortages and disrupted ordinary life in Russia more than at any point during the conflict. Russia has extended a fuel export ban until the end of the year. In Ukraine, the increased attacks aim to damage Moscow's war effort and force negotiations. The UN has warned of rising civilian deaths, highlighting the urgency for a resolution to the conflict.