Russia Says Ukraine War Has Shifted to a New “Tougher” Stage

Kremlin Declares “New Stage” in Ukraine Conflict

The Kremlin announced that the war has entered a different paradigm after a series of heavy overnight air attacks that left at least 17 civilians dead and wounded around a hundred people.

• Russian spokesperson’s claim: Kyiv is committing “inhumane acts of terror” against civilians, especially children. If the Ukrainian government deliberately targets non‑combatants, the war has fundamentally changed.
• Russia’s focus: Strikes are now aimed at military targets—capital cities and other strategic locations—following a large drone attack that killed 21 people in an eastern town under Russian control. Kyiv denies hitting the dormitory, asserting it was aimed at a drone command centre.
• Diplomatic stance: Despite escalations, Moscow remains open to talks with the United States about ending hostilities. The Kremlin says a peace deal could be reached if Kyiv pulls its forces from four regions Russia claims as its own. Ukraine rejects this demand, labeling it a forced surrender.

The narrative conflict persists: Russia attributes the war’s changing character to civilian casualties, while Kyiv insists its actions are purely military. The situation remains tense as both sides blame the other for escalating violence.