**Russian Strikes on Energy Facilities in Ukraine Cause Blackouts**
On April 18, Russian forces launched attacks near the city of Konotop in Sumy Oblast, causing blackouts and disrupting water supplies to surrounding settlements. The strikes came just hours after Moscow announced that a one-month partial ceasefire on energy infrastructure had expired.
According to local reports, explosions were heard near Konotop around 8:00 p.m. local time. While there were no reported casualties or injuries in the city itself, nearby towns and villages lost power after the strikes. Local residents also reported that their water supplies had been shut off.
Energy officials confirmed on Telegram that the blackouts were a direct result of Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. This development comes as Moscow has repeatedly violated previous ceasefires agreed upon by Russia and Ukraine, with more than 30 instances of attacks on energy facilities documented since March.
**Russia’s Refusal to Extend Ceasefire**
The attacks on Sumy Oblast indicate that Russia will not extend the partial ceasefire and has resumed attacks on critical infrastructure. Kyiv has already agreed to enter an immediate ceasefire on all attacks once Moscow accepts the same terms, but Russia continues to refuse, delaying and obstructing attempts to negotiate a comprehensive peace agreement.
**International Response**
The international community is growing increasingly concerned about Russia’s actions in Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Washington may “take a pass” on peace negotiations if either side makes it too difficult to secure a deal. The United States has also announced plans to upgrade and fortify a second route through the Suwałki Gap, a strategically critical stretch of land along the Polish border viewed as one of the most likely targets for a future Russian attack on NATO.
**Humanitarian Efforts**
In other news, Japan’s government has pledged funds for reconstruction and development in Ukraine, with the support directed toward budgetary needs. A prisoner exchange deal is also reportedly underway, which would involve 246 POWs from each side, as well as 46 injured soldiers.
**Additional Developments**
The United States has imposed new sanctions on Russia and China, targeting 39 individuals and 60 legal entities. Ukrainian airline SkyUp Airlines has made its first regular flight since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion, flying on the Chisinau-Paris route on April 18.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the international community must remain vigilant and work together to support those affected by these ongoing hostilities.
