Russia Fires Missiles At Kyiv, Intercepted By Air Defenses

Firefighters work at the site after Russian attacks in Kyiv, Ukraine, Thursday, March 21, 2024. Around 30 cruise and ballistic missiles were shot down over Kyiv on Thursday morning, said Serhii Popko,

In a recent attack on Kyiv, Russia launched 31 ballistic and cruise missiles at the Ukrainian capital, marking the first assault in 44 days. Fortunately, all incoming missiles were successfully intercepted by Ukraine's air defenses, preventing significant damage. However, 13 individuals, including a child, sustained injuries from falling wreckage.

The residents of Kyiv were startled awake by loud explosions around 5 a.m. as the missiles approached from various directions simultaneously. The city's air defenses managed to thwart the attack, with the interception rate proving to be notably high compared to earlier stages of the conflict.

Despite the successful defense, Ukrainian officials emphasize the urgent need for additional Western weapons to effectively combat Russia's invasion. The recent attack resulted in the hospitalization of an 11-year-old girl and a 38-year-old man, with eight others sustaining minor injuries.

13 individuals injured from falling wreckage, including a child.

31 missiles launched at Kyiv intercepted by air defenses.

Residents startled by explosions as missiles approached from various directions.

Ukrainian air defenses successfully thwarted the attack.

Urgent need for Western weapons emphasized by Ukrainian officials.

80 individuals evacuated due to falling wreckage causing fires and damage.

Survivors shared harrowing experiences of narrow escapes.

Conflict escalated with Ukraine's aerial strikes on Russia's Belgorod region.

President Putin warned of retaliatory measures.

EU leaders exploring options to enhance arms production for Ukraine.

Approximately 80 individuals were evacuated from their homes due to the falling wreckage from the intercepted missiles, which caused fires, damaged buildings, and created craters in the city streets.

Survivors shared harrowing experiences of narrow escapes, with some recounting how quick decisions saved lives. The attack on Kyiv followed Ukraine's aerial strikes on Russia's Belgorod region, escalating tensions between the two nations.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia had previously warned of retaliatory measures in response to Ukraine's actions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for increased support from Western allies, particularly in the form of advanced air defense systems to counter missile threats.

European Union leaders are exploring options to enhance arms and ammunition production for Ukraine, as Russia continues to target various Ukrainian cities with drone and missile attacks. The conflict has resulted in casualties and destruction, underscoring the urgent need for international intervention to mitigate further harm.

For more updates on the war in Ukraine, visit AP's coverage.