Russia Launches Airstrikes on Ukraine Hours After Zelensky Labels Peace Proposal “Quite Solid”

President Zelensky’s Optimistic Assessment

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Thursday that the latest peace framework presented by the United Nations appears “quite solid,” citing tangible progress on security guarantees for Kyiv and its allies. The president emphasized that the draft includes provisions for the withdrawal of foreign troops, a clear demarcation of contested territories, and robust mechanisms to prevent future escalations.

Continued Hostilities from Moscow

Despite Zelensky’s hopeful remarks, the Russian Ministry of Defense ordered a series of coordinated bombings across several Ukrainian regions during the early hours of the morning. Missile and drone strikes targeted critical infrastructure in the east and south, including power substations, railway hubs, and civilian shelters. Ukrainian officials reported dozens of casualties and extensive damage to public utilities.

What the Airstrikes Reveal

The timing of the attacks suggests that Moscow remains committed to a military strategy aimed at pressuring Kyiv into a less favorable negotiating position. Analysts note that the strikes were “strategically timed” to undermine the momentum generated by Zelensky’s recent statements and to signal that Russia will not abandon its campaign until its core demands are met.

International Reaction

Western leaders condemned the overnight bombings, calling them a blatant violation of international humanitarian law. The European Union’s foreign policy chief urged Russia to “immediately cease all offensive operations” and to engage constructively in the peace process. Meanwhile, the United Nations called for an emergency session to assess the humanitarian impact of the strikes.

Outlook for the Peace Process

While Zelensky’s endorsement of the peace plan has raised hopes for a diplomatic breakthrough, the recent Russian aggression casts doubt on the durability of any forthcoming agreement. Observers warn that without a verifiable ceasefire and concrete steps toward de‑escalation, the “quite solid” framework may remain only on paper.