Ukraine Reports Civilian Casualties as Russia Violates Ceasefire

Russia declared a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire to coincide with its Victory Day celebrations, but Ukraine has condemned the truce as a farce, accusing Russian forces of continuing attacks along the front lines, especially in the Sumy region. Despite Russia's claim of observing the ceasefire, Russian airstrikes dropped guided bombs on residential areas near the Russia-Ukraine border, killing at least one civilian and injuring others, prompting investigations into potential war crimes. Ukraine's leadership rejects the short-term ceasefire, backing a longer 30-day truce proposed by the United States, which Russia has not accepted, insisting on enforcement mechanisms before agreeing. Ukrainian officials report intensified Russian tactical aviation strikes overnight and ongoing attacks along the eastern front and Kharkiv region, while Kyiv has ordered forces to return fire only if attacked during the ceasefire period. The situation reflects deep mistrust between the sides, with Ukraine refusing to participate in a ceasefire it sees as a political move by Russia to improve its international image amid the conflict. The civilian casualties and continued hostilities during the ceasefire underscore the fragile and contested nature of any temporary halt in fighting.