Russian Strikes in Ukraine Result in 17 Deaths, Zelenskyy Links to US Diesel Sanctions Lift

A Russian attack in Ukraine resulted in the deaths of at least 17 individuals, including three children, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The strikes occurred in the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia and also injured at least 18 people, including three children, as reported by Ukraine’s state emergency services on Saturday afternoon. Mykhailo Semikin, the acting head of the Zaporizhzhia regional military administration, stated in a Telegram post that rescue operations are ongoing as people are being searched for under the rubble of destroyed buildings. Zelenskyy commented that the attacks were Russia's 'thanks' for the lifting of sanctions on diesel exports by the U.S. He made this statement on X, referring to the dropping of five glide bombs on residential areas in Zaporizhzhia. The strikes occurred shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump announced a temporary lift on sanctions on Russian diesel to address rising prices. On the same day, Ukrainian officials were in Miami for discussions with European and U.S. officials aimed at resolving the conflict with Russia. Zelenskyy criticized the sanctions lift and accused Trump of using the peace talks as a distraction while negotiating with the Kremlin. Despite the talks being scheduled for two days, the Ukrainian delegation returned home early after concluding discussions. A senior official noted that Ukraine would continue targeting Russian oil refineries regardless of U.S.-Russia agreements. The Ukrainian armed forces reported that they struck a significant oil facility in Russia’s Samara region overnight. Zelenskyy is currently coordinating with European leaders and preparing for several high-level meetings, having spoken with leaders from France, Norway, and Finland on Saturday. Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, stated that Russian strikes have resulted in over 80 civilian deaths in two days and have intensified hybrid attacks against Europe, including EU member states and NATO allies. Kallas also mentioned that the suspension of sanctions on Russian diesel would provide Moscow with additional revenue for its military efforts. On Monday, EU Foreign Ministers are expected to approve a comprehensive set of sanctions targeting Russia’s military operations since the onset of the conflict.