Four years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion, the conflict in Ukraine continues to cause deadly destruction. On Wednesday, officials reported fresh attacks, rising casualties, and ongoing diplomatic manoeuvres as both sides pressed their campaigns.
Fighting intensifies across key regions
Ukrainian authorities confirmed that at least 15,172 civilians have died since February 2022, while more than 41,000 people have suffered injuries. Meanwhile, regional officials reported new strikes in Dnipropetrovsk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson. Local leaders said Russian shelling damaged homes, energy facilities, and critical infrastructure. At the same time, Moscow officials claimed Ukrainian drone attacks hit border regions, causing power and heating disruptions for residents.
Diplomacy and sanctions shape next phase
In Kyiv, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked countries that supported a United Nations resolution backing a lasting peace. However, Russian leader Vladimir Putin warned that Ukraine and its allies risked serious consequences if they continued to challenge Moscow. Meanwhile, European Council President Antonio Costa signalled progress on Ukraine’s European Union ambitions, while Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen pledged financial support. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also urged China to influence Russia’s decisions. Additionally, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres renewed calls for an immediate ceasefire.
Elsewhere, the United Kingdom and Australia announced new sanctions targeting Russian energy revenues. At the same time, the United States, under President Donald Trump, said it remained committed to pursuing a negotiated settlement. As the war enters another year, civilians on both sides continue to bear the heaviest burden of the prolonged and devastating conflict in Eastern Europe today still unfolding. Observers say the human toll keeps communities on edge, and families across the region anxiously await meaningful peace talks. For now, however, air raid sirens and nightly strikes remind ordinary people that the war remains far from over despite growing international diplomatic pressure and continued military operations across Ukraine.
