At least 12 people were killed and 57 injured in a “massive and virtually nonstop” aerial barrage on Kyiv, as Russia launched over 1,500 drones and 50 missiles on the Ukrainian capital and other major cities.
The attacks, which occurred over the last two nights, destroyed entire residential buildings, including one where a 15-year-old girl was killed, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strikes as a “deliberate terrorist tactic” by Russia.
Ukraine Under Siege
Zelenskyy said 20 locations were attacked in the capital, including a school and veterinary clinic, and that 94% of drones were intercepted, but only 73% of the missiles were shot down. Other cities, such as Odesa, Rivne, Ivano-Frankivsk, and Kharkiv, also came under fire.
Zelenskyy accused Russia of stockpiling weapons for the attack to coincide with President Trump’s visit to China, saying it was an attempt to disrupt the global political atmosphere and draw attention to Russia’s actions.
Russian President Vladimir Putin claimed the war may be nearing its end, but Zelenskyy disputed this, saying Russia’s actions did not indicate a willingness to end the conflict. Instead, Zelenskyy called on Russia to take steps towards a real and lasting ceasefire.
Global Implications
The attacks on Ukraine have sparked concerns about the ongoing conflict and its potential to escalate. Zelenskyy met with European leaders to discuss steps towards ending the war, while President Trump expressed optimism about a potential end to the conflict.
The situation in Ukraine remains dire, with the country facing ongoing attacks and a humanitarian crisis. As the international community continues to watch, it is clear that a resolution to the conflict is needed to prevent further suffering and instability in the region.
