Civilian Casualties in East Ukraine After Russian Advancement Results in Apartment Strike 

President Zelenskiy warns of tougher battle in Eastern Ukraine as Russian forces push for gains on invasion anniversary 

Russia has intensified its efforts on the battlefield in order to make advancements before Ukraine receives its newly pledged Western battle tanks and armored vehicles. This has resulted in an increase in momentum, with the Russian government announcing progress to the north and south capture of the Ukrainian city of Bakhmut in Donetsk. This push for progress reflects the determination of Russia to maintain its strategic position before facing any potential challenges from the newly acquired military capabilities of Ukraine. 

According to a report from the Ukrainian military on Wednesday, Bakhmut and 10 neighboring towns and villages came under Russian fire. The region of Bakhmut has been experiencing persistent bombardment from Russia for several months.  

The Ukrainian military added that Avdiivka, Maryinka, and neighboring settlements have also been targeted by Russian attacks. Avdiivka, in particular, is considered a major target, making it a frequent site of violence and conflict. The latest attacks on these areas demonstrate the ongoing growing tensions between Russia and Ukraine and the escalation of the conflict in the region. The Ukrainian military’s reports indicate a need for continued attention and action to address the situation and prevent further violence. 

According to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, there has been a definite increase in the offensive operations of the occupiers on the front in the east of Ukraine. He describes the situation as tougher, with the enemy attempting to achieve something to demonstrate Russia’s chances on the anniversary of the invasion. In an evening video address, the President conveyed the gravity of the situation and the ongoing conflict in the region. 

Missile Attack on Kramatorsk 

According to Ukranian police reports, a Russian missile strike in Kramatorsk, which is located approximately 55 km northwest of Bakhmut, destroyed one apartment building and caused damage to seven others on Wednesday. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least three people and left 20 others injured.  

According to the police in Kramatorsk, a Russian Iskander-K tactical missile struck the city at 9:45 p.m. local time. The attack resulted in damage to at least eight apartment buildings, with one building being destroyed. There are fears that people may still be trapped under the rubble. This recent attack follows the deadly January incident in Dnipro city, where a Russian missile hit an apartment building, killing at least 44 people. 

While in April 2022, Ukraine reported 57 fatalities due to a Russian missile striking the train station in Kramatorsk. Russia, which denies any involvement in targeting civilians, claimed the missile was Ukrainian.  

Violent acts like these demonstrate the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the devastating consequences it can have on innocent civilians. The growing casualties and tragedies highlight the urgency for a resolution to the conflict and a need for action to protect the safety and well-being of those affected by the violence. 

Ukraine demands more weapons to cease Russian aggression 

The Ukrainian military has received weapons pledges from its Western allies, including a recent one expected to include longer-range rockets from the United States. However, the Russian government views this as an escalation of the conflict and sees their campaign in Ukraine as a necessary defense against an aggressive West. Despite Ukraine and its Western allies accusing Russia of committing war crimes and illegally expanding their territory, President Putin portrays his troop’s actions as a ‘special military operation’ aimed at demilitarizing Ukraine. Despite committing war crimes in places like Bucha, Irpin, Kharkiv, and other regions and killing so many innocent civilians, Russia is not being held accountable for its actions and continues to hurt Ukraine.  

It was on 24^th February last year that Putin authorized a large-scale invasion of Ukraine. Ever since then, Ukrainians have been assaulted with missile strikes and artillery attacks. The conflict began with Ukraine’s request to join NATO. The Russian government sees this move as a threat to Russia and has been at war ever since.