Ukraine's air defenses engaged in a five-hour battle against a Russian aerial attack on the capital city of Kyiv, officials reported on Thursday. The overnight assault resulted in injuries to at least two individuals, as confirmed by Ukraine's Emergency Service. The attack caused damage to a kindergarten, a gas pipe, and approximately 20 cars within the city, according to the Kyiv Military Administration.
Russia's military campaign in Ukraine, now in its third year, has been characterized by long-range strikes that often target civilian areas. The ongoing attacks on the electricity network have led to the disruption of around 70% of Ukraine's energy generation capacity, resulting in blackouts as the country braces for winter.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine was scheduled to meet with President Joe Biden in Washington on Thursday to seek continued U.S. military support for the country, emphasizing the critical need for air defense systems.
Reports emerged of energy infrastructure being targeted in Ukraine's western Ivano-Frankivsk region, leading to a blackout in parts of the regional capital. Similarly, the power grid in the southern Mykolaiv region was also attacked, although specific details were not immediately available.
Ukraine's air force disclosed that Russia launched six missiles and 78 Shahed drones at the country overnight, with defenses successfully intercepting four missiles and 66 drones. Tragically, a missile strike in the Odesa region claimed the life of a 62-year-old woman, causing damage to homes and vehicles in the area.
In the city of Zaporizhzhia, at least eight individuals, including a 14-year-old, sustained injuries during the overnight assault. The regional governor shared images of residences with shattered windows and walls pierced by shrapnel. The Emergency Service reported that 12 residential buildings were damaged in the city, prompting the evacuation of 18 people.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, the international community closely monitors the situation, with a focus on the humanitarian impact and the urgent need for support and assistance for the affected population.
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