German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has remarked that the recent, significant Russian attacks on Ukraine indicate a preference for escalation over negotiations. He reaffirmed Germany’s ongoing support for Ukraine amidst these developments.
In a statement shared on social media on May 14, Merz emphasized that while Kyiv and its allies are open to discussions aimed at achieving a fair peace, Russia continues its military aggression.
“The most powerful Russian strikes on Ukraine in recent times show that Moscow is opting for escalation instead of negotiations. We continue to stand by Ukraine,” wrote Merz.
The attacks on May 14 involved a combination of drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles targeting Kyiv and various regions across Ukraine. Reports indicate casualties and injuries resulting from these strikes.
According to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the assault began on the evening of May 13, following a day marked by a significant drone attack. Russian forces launched a combined assault using strike drones and missiles from both air and ground platforms. During the night of May 14, Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepted 652 drones and 41 missiles out of 675 and 56, respectively. However, 15 missiles and 23 strike drones hit 24 locations, with drone debris falling in 18 areas.
In Kyiv, at least eight people have been reported dead, and over 40 others injured. Damage was noted in residential buildings, particularly in the Darnytskyi district. As of 1:33 PM, there were at least 20 individuals reported missing. In the Kyiv region, destruction was recorded across five districts.
In Kharkiv, strikes were reported in the Shevchenkivskyi district, resulting in injuries to 15 individuals. Additionally, a drone attack on the Saltivskyi district in the morning of May 14 left nine people injured, including two children.
In Odesa, regional prosecutors reported that Russia launched a mass drone attack targeting port and civilian infrastructure. One residential building suffered damage, and two men, aged 33 and 70, were hospitalized due to injuries.
In Zaporizhzhia, Russian strikes targeted industrial infrastructure, but preliminary reports suggest there were no casualties, according to regional leader Ivan Fedorov.
Furthermore, the Russian military attacked the city of Novhorod-Siverskyi in the Chernihiv region using a drone, damaging equipment at an agricultural enterprise.
Recent Russian military actions have intensified, with significant strikes across Ukraine leading to casualties and destruction. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz characterized these attacks as indicative of Russia's strategy to escalate rather than engage in peace talks, while affirming Germany's support for Ukraine.