Russia has carried out one of the largest aerial assaults on Ukraine, hitting energy infrastructure across the country and resulting in casualties and significant destruction. The attack, confirmed by Ukraine's foreign minister, targeted several major cities, including Odesa, Dnipro, and Rivne.
The capital city of Kyiv, which has been experiencing frequent strikes since September, faced its heaviest attack in three months. Residents sought refuge in the metro network as the airstrikes intensified.
Foreign Minister Andrii Sibyha condemned the assault, attributing it to Russian leader Vladimir Putin's aggressive stance. The attack followed Putin's recent phone call with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, signaling a lack of progress in diplomatic efforts.
President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that approximately 120 missiles and 90 drones were launched in the overnight assault. Ukrainian defense forces successfully intercepted and destroyed over 140 aerial targets, demonstrating their resilience against the aggression.
Zelensky emphasized that the attack targeted energy infrastructure nationwide, resulting in damage to critical facilities and power outages in some areas. Efforts are underway to restore electricity and address the aftermath of the assault.
The indiscriminate nature of the attack is evident as all regions of Ukraine, including western areas, were impacted. Tragically, the assault claimed the lives of at least two individuals and left eight others injured, underscoring the human cost of the conflict.
As the situation unfolds, Ukraine remains resolute in its defense and calls for international support to counter the escalating aggression from Russia. The need for a peaceful resolution through strength and solidarity is paramount in the face of such brazen attacks.
