Ukraine: Russian Raid in Poltava and Government Crisis – 51 Dead, 230 Injured and Resignation of Four Ministers
Devastating attack in Poltava, government reshuffle in Ukraine, and possible supply of long-range missiles from the US.
Ukraine: Russian Raid in Poltava and Government Crisis – 51 Dead, 230 Injured and Resignation of Four Ministers.
Devastating Russian Raid on Poltava and Government Crisis in Ukraine
Ukraine has been hit by one of the bloodiest Russian attacks since the start of the war. A raid on Poltava in central Ukraine has left at least 51 people dead and more than 230 injured. The attack took place in broad daylight and targeted a nearby school and hospital, partially destroying a building of the telecommunications institute. General Oleksandr Syrsky, commander of the Ukrainian army, said that two Iskander missiles were used by Russian forces. The attack is another example of “Putin’s brutality,” said John Kirby of the United States, who also announced new military aid to Kiev, including the possibility of long-range missiles.
Poltava Attack: International Assessment and Reactions
According to regional governor Philip Pronin, the attack left dozens dead and hundreds injured, with some people still trapped under rubble. It was one of the most devastating attacks since the conflict began and has drawn international condemnation. Ukraine's first lady, Olena Zelenska, described the attack as a "tragedy," saying Russia was "taking away the most precious thing: life."
The United States condemned the attack as an act of brutality and stressed its continued commitment to supporting Ukraine. The deal being finalized to supply long-range cruise missiles for Ukrainian F-16s is another step in this direction. However, it will take several months to resolve technical issues before delivery.
Political Crisis in Ukraine: Cabinet Reshuffle and Ministers Resign
The political crisis accompanied the horror of the attack. Three Ukrainian government ministers, responsible for strategic industries, justice and the environment, submitted their resignations along with Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanishina. Vitalii Koval, director of the State Property Fund, also submitted his letter of resignation. According to Davyd Arakhamia, spokesman for President Volodymyr Zelensky's party, more than 50% of the government will be replaced.
Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba could be one of the next to leave the government. Sources point to Andrii Sybiha, the current deputy foreign minister, as the most likely candidate to replace him. Despite his resignation, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal is expected to remain in his post.
Tense situation in Eastern Ukraine and Russian counteroffensives
Meanwhile, the situation remains tense in other regions of Ukraine. An attack in the pro-Russian region of Lugansk killed a local official, while in Russia, in the Kursk region, a column of Ukrainian military vehicles was destroyed by Russian forces. The war continues to be characterized by brutal clashes and acts of violence involving civilians and military personnel.
Russia the Challenger and the Diplomatic Impact
On the diplomatic front, Russia continues to defy the international community. President Vladimir Putin was welcomed with full honors in Mongolia, despite the international arrest warrant issued against him by the International Criminal Court (ICC). At the same time, Moscow sentenced the well-known scientist Alexander Shiplyuk to 15 years in prison for high treason, while the trial of French researcher Laurent Vinatier for failing to register as a “foreign agent” is ongoing.
Ukraine is facing one of the most difficult phases in its recent history, with devastating attacks, a government in crisis and continuous diplomatic and military pressure from Russia. The war continues to inflict heavy human and material losses, while the West seeks to shore up military and diplomatic support for Kiev. The upcoming cabinet reshuffle may represent Zelensky's attempt to strengthen his cabinet for the challenges ahead, but the path remains uncertain.
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