As the Russia-Ukraine war marks its third Easter, Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski condemns Russia's economic sabotage as "forbidden tactics," while Ukrainian forces face fresh challenges in Kharkiv.
The Polish Foreign Minister, Radosław Sikorski, has condemned Russia's economic sabotage in Ukraine as "forbidden tactics" that violate international law. Sikorski's remarks come as the Russia-Ukraine war enters its third Easter, with no end in sight.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military reports it has repelled a Russian incursion attempt in the eastern city of Kharkiv, a key target for Russia's expansionist ambitions. Intense fighting continues in the region, raising concerns about renewed efforts to capture the city.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed a new wave of Russian counteroffensive operations in the Kharkiv sector. Fierce battles erupted throughout the day, with heavy artillery fire and airstrikes targeting Ukrainian positions.
White House spokesperson John Kirby echoed Zelenskyy's assessment, predicting an escalation in Russian attacks and troop deployments in the coming weeks. However, he expressed confidence in the resilience of Ukrainian forces.
Overnight missile strikes hit Kharkiv, targeting ammunition stores and military personnel. Russian officials claim their attacks achieved their objectives, but Ukrainian authorities refute these claims and insist no significant gains have been made.
The European Union (EU) is poised to mobilize funds from frozen Russian assets to provide financial assistance to Ukraine. This move reflects the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine's economic recovery amid the ongoing conflict.
Ukrainian commanders have long anticipated an offensive in the summer months, with Kharkiv as a potential target due to its strategic importance. Russian reconnaissance groups attempted to cross the border during the latest attack, but Ukrainian forces repelled the incursion.
"Not a single meter has been lost," declared Kharkiv regional head Oleh Syniehubov, emphasizing the resilience of Ukrainian defenses.
Kharkiv residents evacuate as reserve troops pour into the city to establish a defense line. Amidst the chaos and fear, Olena Kurylo, a 54-year-old civilian, expresses her exasperation and exhaustion.
"We are not sleeping, again," she lamented, as yet another air raid siren pierced the city's atmosphere. "We all know this is exactly their aim: To exhaust us, and to make us leave the city, so they can take it."
The United States has announced a military aid package worth $400 million for Ukraine, including munitions for Patriot and NASAMS air defense systems, as well as HIMARS artillery systems. This latest aid package underscores the international community's ongoing support for Ukraine's defense efforts.
Despite the ongoing challenges, Kharkiv remains a symbol of Ukraine's resilience and determination. Kurylo, who lost her home on the first day of the war, embodies the spirit of the Ukrainian people:
"They deprived me of everything, and I wanted to ask: Why? This is our land. This is home," she said. "There is no excuse for millions of broken lives."
