Russians attacked Dnipro, killing four killed 4, and injuring over twenty

A Russian drone strike on March 28 killed four people and injured at least 24 in Dnipro, setting fire to a hotel and restaurant complex and damaging 11 private homes. Three of the wounded are in critical condition, according to Regional Governor Serhii Lysak.

Dnipro is the key logistics and humanitarian hub, has faced frequent Russian attacks. Over 20 drones targeted the city, though most were intercepted. Despite Ukraine's agreement to a 30-day U.S.-proposed ceasefire, Russia has not accepted the terms.

Russia is preparing a large-scale offensive that should last 6 to 9 months

According to the March 29 Associated Press (AP) report, Russia is gearing up for a significant military offensive against Ukraine, expected to span six to nine months and cover most of 2025. Citing sources from the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), the report indicates that the Kremlin plans a multi-pronged advance along a 1,000-kilometer front line. This large-scale operation aims to maximize pressure on Ukrainian defenses and bolster Russia’s negotiating position amid ongoing peace talks influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. The AFU General Staff warns that Russia intends to stretch Ukraine’s already strained military resources, forcing them to defend a vast and challenging frontline.

The AP report highlights that this planned offensive comes as Russia seeks to capitalize on its current military momentum, despite facing its own logistical and manpower challenges. Ukrainian officials suggest that the Kremlin’s strategy is not just about territorial gains but also about wearing down Ukraine’s resistance and its Western support. The prolonged duration of the offensive—potentially lasting into late 2025—reflects Russia’s determination to maintain relentless pressure, even as both sides navigate diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. This development has raised concerns in Kyiv about the need for increased aid and troop mobilization to counter what could be one of the war’s most intense phases yet.

Russia has changed the tactics of “Shahed” drone attacks

Russians have begun using a new strategy of kamikaze drone strikes. Now, UAVs gather several kilometers away from targets at an altitude of several thousand meters and then attack cities simultaneously. Previously, they flew one after the other with an interval of several minutes.

Ukraine is already working to counter this tactic.

Russian ballistic missile strike on Kryvyi Rih injured seven civilians

A Russian missile strike on Kryvyi Rih, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, injured at least five people on March 29, Governor Serhii Lysak reported. The attack caused damage to high-rise buildings, houses, a school, and a car wash. All victims are reportedly in a condition of medium severity. Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the city military administration, confirmed that Moscow used a ballistic missile in the strike, which was reported at 11:33 a.m. local time. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage and casualties.

Notably, Kryvyi Rih, the hometown of President Volodymyr Zelensky, remains a frequent target of Russian missile attacks. With a population of approximately 660,000, it is the second-largest city in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast and lies about 70 kilometers (40 miles) northwest of the nearest front line.

Putin's negotiator says that a ceasefire agreement will not be reached in 2025

Grigory Karasin, Russia's representative in peace talks, expressed doubts that a ceasefire in Ukraine will be reached this year. While he acknowledged the possibility of progress, he said it is unlikely in the near future.

Karasin described the Saudi Arabia meetings as “calm” and “constructive” but admitted they yielded poor results. He noted that working with the U.S. delegation is feasible, as its representatives "listen, perceive, and oppose some positions."