Zelensky Calls Russian Airport Strikes 'Demonstrative' After Ceasefire Appeal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russian forces launched demonstrative strikes on Kyiv and Boryspol airports overnight, calling them a response to preparations for a US delegation's visit. He said Ukraine will adjust its operation regarding Russian airspace next week. The Armed Forces of Ukraine communications command stated defense forces continue combat missions in full, saying a ceasefire cannot be one-sided or asymmetric. President Zelensky had previously announced US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner would visit Kyiv on September 6, with Ukraine pledging no air strikes during that period. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed responsibility for strikes on metallurgical plants, logistics centers, and electrical substations across several Ukrainian regions. Ukrainian authorities and international organizations classify these attacks on civilian infrastructure as war crimes, with legal experts citing patterns consistent with genocide definitions under the 1948 UN Convention.