Ukrainian Crisis Heats Up in Donetsk

Fighting in Ukraine intensified over the weekend as Ukrainian forces launched a major offensive in a key eastern city held by pro-Russia rebels. On Monday, Ukraine claimed victory as it cleared out rebel forces from the Donetsk airport.

Ukraine sent tanks and artillery units to Donetsk on Saturday, and the fighting continued through Sunday. Ukraine’s claim of victory has not yet been verified though. Rebel leader Alexander Zakharchenko told reporters on Monday that the rebels withstood the offensive and that Ukraine’s attempt to regain the airport failed.

Ukraine and Russia both blame the other for the complete breakdown in recent days of a September ceasefire. The United Nations estimates that more than 4,700 people have been killed in eastern Ukraine since April.

The Trumpet believes the Ukrainian crisis is part of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s plan to reassert control over Eastern Europe. Such a plan will prompt the European Union to transform into a strong military power.

For more information on how this crisis will impact you, watch our Key of David program “Crimea Crisis Impacts Europe.”