Drone Diplomacy: Ukraine's Call for US Sanctions Amid Ceasefire Tensions

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged the US to intensify sanctions on Russia following drone attacks on cities such as Kryvyi Rih. Despite US-announced ceasefire deals, Russia's recent actions cast doubt on their intent for peace, stirring global criticism and calls for stronger international response.

In a fervent appeal on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy called on the United States to intensify sanctions on Moscow. This plea follows a series of Russian drone attacks, notably targeting his hometown Kryvyi Rih and Sumy, despite US-brokered ceasefire agreements purportedly in place.

The US claimed to have secured agreements with both Ukraine and Russia to halt strikes over the Black Sea and on energy targets. However, the timing of these agreements remains ambiguous. Zelenskiy asserts they are immediate, but the Kremlin insists on international banking reinstatements before complying.

Ukraine reported substantial drone activity overnight, with local officials claiming the largest attack on Kryvyi Rih since Russia's 2022 invasion. Amid these developments, Zelenskiy stresses the need for global pressure and punitive actions against Russia to deter future strikes.

(With inputs from agencies.)