Russia’s missile attacks on Ukraine caused at least five fatalities shortly after Ukraine agreed to a U.S.-proposed ceasefire. Attacks targeted multiple cities, with casualties among civilians, including sailors in Odesa. The Kremlin perceives the ceasefire proposal as a potential trap, as Russia continues its military operations. Meanwhile, discussions on U.S. security assistance and intelligence sharing are ongoing.
On March 12, 2025, Russia launched missile attacks on various Ukrainian cities, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals. This assault occurred shortly after discussions between Ukrainian leadership and U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia, which had raised expectations for a potential ceasefire. Notable affected regions included Odessa, Kryvyi Rih, Kharkiv, Dnipro, Kyiv, and Sumy, where at least 11 others sustained injuries according to local reports.
In a specific incident on Wednesday morning, two missile strikes in Kryvyi Rih killed one woman and injured four. Earlier, a missile attack on Odesa port during the night claimed the lives of three Syrian sailors and one Ukrainian citizen. Oleksiy Kuleba, the Minister of Community and Territorial Development of Ukraine, reported that the civilians were involved in loading wheat destined for Algeria, emphasizing the civilian nature of the operation.
These strikes involved both ballistic missiles and over 130 drones, coinciding with Ukraine’s acceptance of a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire contingent on reciprocal action from Russia. The U.S. is set to resume intelligence sharing and security assistance for Ukraine upon this agreement’s initiation, with Tulsi Gabbard, U.S. director of national intelligence, confirming this reinstatement.
The Kremlin has not issued an official statement on the ceasefire proposal, however, sources indicate that President Vladimir Putin views it as a potential “trap” and is unlikely to proceed without additional assurances, especially while Russian forces maintain advances on the battlefield.
Additionally, Ukraine has consistently rejected any ceasefire terms that would necessitate the relinquishment of occupied territories, including Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014. U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly asserted a commitment to ending the conflict, although his comments often reflect a sympathetic stance towards Russia, historically leading to stark disagreements with President Zelenskyy.
Moreover, recent reports from Kremlin-aligned military bloggers showcased Russian troops raising their flags in the town of Sudzha, previously occupied by Ukraine since August 2024 after a successful incursion.
In summary, following an agreement between Ukraine and the United States for a ceasefire, Russia reacted with aggressive missile strikes that resulted in civilian casualties. Despite the proposed ceasefire, the Kremlin has raised concerns about the conditions of the deal, indicating a steadfast position amidst battlefield advancements. The ongoing conflict continues to evolve, demonstrating the complexities surrounding any peace negotiations and the dire humanitarian implications for Ukraine.
Original Source: www.politico.eu
