Russia Launches Largest Air Attack on Ukraine, Killing Dozens
Russia has launched an unprecedented air attack on Ukraine, with drones and missiles fired across the country, resulting in the deaths of at least 31 people and injuring over 150 others.
Wave of Attacks Strikes Nationwide
Russia has conducted the largest air attack on Ukraine since the beginning of its full-scale invasion, according to the Ukrainian military. The attacks involved a significant number of drones and missiles targeting various locations throughout the country. At least 31 people have been killed and over 150 others injured in the wave of attacks.
The strikes began overnight into Friday and hit multiple cities, including Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Odesa, and Lviv. The attacks continued throughout the day, with missiles targeting the northern Cherkasy region and the northeastern city of Sumy.
Ukraine's air force spokesperson, Yurii Ihnat, described the attacks as unprecedented, stating that it has been a long time since they have seen so many enemy targets. Russia used various types of weapons, including hypersonic Kinzhal missiles, cruise missiles, and Shahed drones, in their assault.
International Response and Political Implications
The Polish military reported that an unidentified airborne object entered Polish airspace from Ukraine early Friday morning. Russia refused to give explanations until concrete evidence was presented.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky pledged that Ukraine's military would respond to the attacks. He also called on Congress to pass additional assistance to Ukraine, as the country's hopes for victory fade in the face of waning Western support.
US President Joe Biden urged Congress to approve additional funding for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of sending necessary weapons and air defense systems. Biden has requested nearly $60 billion in new assistance but faces challenges due to negotiations over US immigration rules.
Casualties and Destruction
The attacks have resulted in significant casualties and destruction. In Kyiv, seven people were killed and dozens injured after a metro station and residential buildings were targeted. Kharkiv experienced a massive attack, with over 20 strikes reported, including on a hospital. At least three people were killed and 11 injured.
Other regions, such as Zaporizhzhia and Odesa, also suffered casualties and damage. A school building in Odesa was hit, injuring seven people, while in Zaporizhzhia, four people were killed and 10 injured. In Dnipro, six people were confirmed killed and 30 injured, including damage to a maternity hospital.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry condemned Russia's actions, stating that they targeted women, children, the elderly, and civilians. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed to have only struck military targets and rejected the accusations.
