A massive Russian strike on Ukraine has caused numerous casualties and destruction. Meanwhile, in the U.S., a court has temporarily blocked Trump's decision to shut down Voice of America, while Republican Mitch McConnell has criticized Trump's Ukraine policy. Washington continues to discuss peace prospects, but Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the timeline for agreements depends on Kyiv and Moscow. Despite Russia violating the ceasefire, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance claims the "energy ceasefire" remains in effect.
Massive Russian Drone Strike: Casualties and Destruction
Russia carried a large-scale drone attack on northern and eastern Ukraine, deploying 172 UAVs. In Dnipro, four people were killed, and more than twenty were injured. A hotel-restaurant, residential buildings, and administrative facilities were damaged.
U.S. Court Halts Voice of America Shutdown
A federal court has temporarily blocked the liquidation of Voice of America (VOA), initiated by the Trump administration. This follows a lawsuit filed by Reporters Without Borders and VOA staff. Judge Jay Paul Oetken ruled to suspend the shutdown, while human rights advocates called for the immediate restoration of its funding.
McConnell Criticizes Trump’s Ukraine Policy
Republican Senator Mitch McConnell sharply condemned Donald Trump’s approach to the war in Ukraine, calling it an "illusory peace." He stated that such a strategy undermines trust in the U.S., weakens alliances, and poses a threat to Ukraine. McConnell stressed that those who have lost peace desire it most and accused the Trump administration of lacking resolve in deterring Russia.
U.S. Secretary of State: Peace Depends on Ukraine and Russia
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio saidthat a peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia primarily depends on Kyiv and Moscow, not Washington. According to him, the U.S. will work toward peace for as long as necessary. At the same time, he acknowledged that "a lot of work remains" and that the war has proven more complex than expected.
Vance Claims Energy Ceasefire "Is Holding" Despite Russian Attacks
U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance asserted that the agreement to halt strikes on energy facilities in Ukraine and Russia is "essentially working." However, Ukraine reported violations—Russia attacked energy infrastructure in Kherson and Poltava regions. Ukrainian authorities have provided the U.S. with evidence of these strikes.
Protests in Copenhagen After Vance's Greenland Visit
Following U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance's visit to Greenland, protestserupted in Copenhagen. Demonstrators opposed U.S. efforts to increase control over the island. They disagreed with Vance’s remarks that Denmark had "mismanaged" Greenland. Additional protests are planned in the city of Aarhus.
Denmark Responds to the U.S.: "We Do Not Appreciate This Tone"
Denmark Responds to the U.S.: "We Do Not Appreciate This Tone" called the U.S. to adjust its rhetoric regarding Greenland. He emphasized that Denmark remains a U.S. ally but does not accept criticism in such a manner. Rasmussen also stated that Copenhagen is open to discussions on Arctic security and increasing the American military presence on the island.
Author: Danylo Pievchev