On March 19, both Russia and Ukraine traded accusations of launching air attacks against civilian targets, including crucial infrastructure. This happened shortly after one president assured the other of a temporary halt to attacks on Ukraine's energy system. However, Putin rejected a 30-day ceasefire proposed by Trump, settling instead for a limited pause in targeting energy facilities. Following Russia's renewed air assaults, Ukraine's President Zelenskiy vowed to oppose any prolongation of the conflict.
"Andriy Yermak, Zelenskiy's chief of staff, denounced the attacks on civilian infrastructure, stating, 'Russia is attacking civilian infrastructure and people - right now,' via Telegram during the night."
Germany's defense minister criticized Putin's commitment to cease attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities, deeming it insignificant, and urged Trump to secure more significant concessions.
Russian and Ukrainian forces reported numerous drone attacks overnight, leading to damage to civilian properties and critical infrastructure across various regions, including Sumy and Kyiv. The assaults also extended to Sloviansk and an oil terminal in southern Russia, sparking a small fire. In Sumy, hospitals were damaged, prompting evacuations, while in Kyiv, an elderly man sustained injuries due to the attacks.
Overall, Zelenskiy detailed over 40 drones launched by Russia after the phone conversation between Putin and Trump, whereas the Ukrainian military claimed 145 drone launches, with a significant number being intercepted. Russia, on the other hand, reported destroying 57 Ukrainian drones, primarily over the Kursk region.
In a separate incident, a Ukrainian drone attack caused a minor fire at an oil depot in the Krasnodar region of Russia, necessitating evacuations and suspending operations. The Russian aviation watchdog temporarily halted flights from various eastern airports to maintain air safety.
With escalating tensions and ongoing attacks, the region remains volatile, with civilians bearing the brunt of the conflict.