Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the United States and Europe to take action in response to a recent wave of Russian attacks involving over 300 drones and seven missiles.
Zelensky emphasized the importance of not remaining silent in the face of such aggression, calling for concrete action from the US and Europe to address the situation. He also noted that two of the missiles used in the attacks were of North Korean origin.
Russia conducted a significant drone assault on Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and causing extensive damage in Kyiv. The attack also targeted a maternity ward in the southern city of Odesa.
The strikes in Kyiv and Odesa came after a previous drone attack by Russia, which Moscow claimed was in retaliation for alleged provocations by Kyiv. Air raid alerts were issued in Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions, lasting for five hours.
Several people were hospitalized in Kyiv due to the attacks, with the city's officials reporting damage in seven out of ten districts. Despite the violence, Ukrainian officials expressed resilience, with President Zelensky's chief of staff stating that Ukrainians cannot be broken by terror.
Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called for stronger sanctions against Russia and emphasized the need to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities following the assault. He stressed the urgency of imposing new sanctions on Russia, accusing Moscow of rejecting peace efforts.
The attacks on Kyiv and Odesa led to fires in various parts of the cities, with explosions heard throughout the night. The scale of the damage caused by the assault was still being assessed.
Russia's intensified military actions in Ukraine have coincided with accusations against Kyiv for alleged incidents, including strikes on Russian air bases and bridge explosions. Despite calls for de-escalation from US President Donald Trump, both sides have yet to make significant progress in negotiations.
In addition to the drone attacks, Russia has been making territorial advancements along the eastern frontline in Ukraine. The assault in Odesa targeted medical facilities and residential buildings, resulting in casualties and injuries.
While both Russia and Ukraine deny targeting civilians, the conflict has taken a heavy toll on civilian lives, with thousands losing their lives, predominantly Ukrainians.
Source: RTE.ie