Russia chose 'Easter escalation' over ceasefire, says Zelensky

Russian forces launched a massive attack involving hundreds of drones and missiles, killing six civilians and wounding 40 others, according to Ukrainian President Zelensky, who characterized the assault as a deliberate rejection of ceasefire negotiations. Zelensky's comments suggest Russia chose military escalation during the Easter holiday period rather than pursue diplomatic talks to end the nearly three-year war. The attack underscores the deep mistrust between Moscow and Kyiv and signals that despite international peace efforts, the Kremlin remains committed to pressing its military advantage. The strike adds to the mounting civilian toll in Ukraine, where Russian attacks on civilian infrastructure have repeatedly killed non-combatants throughout the conflict. The timing—during a major Christian holiday—reflects the pattern of Russian military operations continuing regardless of symbolic or religious observances.