AFP reports that Russia launched its largest drone and missile attack on Ukraine since the war began on Sunday (September 7), killing at least five people and for the first time hitting the Ukrainian government building. French President Macron and others strongly condemned the Russian attack.
The Ukrainian military stated that on the night of the 7th, Russia fired 810 drones and 13 missiles, of which 747 drones and 4 missiles were intercepted, marking the largest air strike since the war began.
On Sunday, Trump was asked at the White House whether he was prepared to launch a new phase of sanctions against Russia. Trump replied, "Yes, I'm ready." On Sunday evening, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasized on social media that Ukraine "expects a strong response from the United States."
Zelenskyy earlier condemned the attack, saying: "The killings today could have been avoided through genuine diplomatic means long ago. This is a deliberate crime and an extension of the war."
In Kyiv, AFP reporters witnessed the roof of the Council of Ministers building on fire, with gray smoke rising. Helicopters continuously dropped water to extinguish the fire. Ukrainian Prime Minister Syvrydenco said: "This is the first time the enemy has hit the roof and upper floors of the government building." She added that no one was injured inside the building, and the fire had been extinguished by the afternoon of that day.
Commentary: From a military strategy perspective, the strategic intent behind Russia's large-scale attack deserves in-depth analysis. On one hand, it may be to weaken Ukraine's military deployment and defensive capabilities in key areas, and by striking symbolic targets such as government buildings, to undermine the morale and fighting spirit of the Ukrainian military and civilians. On the other hand, this might be a strategic deterrence, warning Ukraine and the Western countries supporting it that Russia still has strong military strength and determination, and will not easily retreat under external pressure.
Zelenskyy condemned the attack and emphasized expecting a strong response from the United States, showing Ukraine's weak position in the conflict and its reliance on Western countries like the United States. Ukraine hopes to apply pressure on Russia through measures such as U.S. sanctions, thereby gaining more support and advantages in the conflict, but this may also lead to further escalation of the conflict, making peace talks between Russia and Ukraine even more difficult.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1842654748797956/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.