Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has refuted Russian claims of capturing the strategic eastern town of Kostyantynivka, stating that intense battles are still ongoing. Despite earlier Kremlin announcements of taking the town, Kyiv maintains it is defending the area.
Ongoing Conflict
Zelensky addressed the nation in his daily evening address, emphasizing that 'fighting is also continuing for Kostyantynivka, which (Russian leader Vladimir) Putin has already claimed as his own, but it is obvious that he will never dare to appear there.' Kostyantynivka, with a pre-invasion population of around 78,000, holds significant strategic value due to its location on the way to important hubs in the Donetsk region.
Warning of New Attacks
In addition to the ongoing conflict in Kostyantynivka, Zelensky warned that Russia is preparing new large-scale attacks. This warning comes ahead of the NATO summit in Turkey, where Zelensky is expected to hold talks with US President Donald Trump about the war. 'Intelligence once again has information the Russians are preparing a new massive strike,' Zelensky said.
Recent Strikes and Retaliation
Earlier this week, Zelensky had issued a warning of an incoming Russian strike on Kyiv. Hours later, Moscow struck the Ukrainian capital, resulting in the deaths of 30 people. In response, Zelensky highlighted that Ukrainian strikes on Russia, which have reached as far as the Urals, are 'every single day delivering results.' These strikes, particularly targeting Russian oil and fuel depots, have impacted daily life in Russia.
Call for Peace
'Pressure must be put on Russia so that there is peace,' Zelensky stated, adding that Kyiv has put forward its proposals and expects 'in the coming months the conditions for a dignified peace will be brought closer either by force or by diplomacy.' The conflict, Europe's worst since World War II, has persisted for nearly 4.5 years.
Casualties and Impact
At least four people were killed by Russian drone and missile strikes in Ukraine on Sunday, underscoring the continued violence and human cost of the war.
