In brief
On Sunday, Russia launched its largest aerial assault on Ukraine since the beginning of the war, deploying 810 drones and missiles and resulting in the death of four individuals, including a mother and her child. President Zelenskyy condemned the attacks as a clear sign that Russia is not seeking peace. Meanwhile, European leaders pushed for diplomatic efforts amid rising calls for enhanced defense support for Ukraine.
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Russia hit Ukraine’s capital with drone and missiles on Sunday in the largest aerial attack since the war began, killing four people across the country and damaging a key government building.
In total, the assault involved 810 drones and decoys, with Ukraine’s air force reporting that it successfully shot down 747 drones and four missiles. The attack marks a notable escalation in the ongoing conflict.
A plume of smoke was observed rising from the roof of Kyiv’s government headquarters following the assault. It remains unclear if this damage was a direct result of the attack or debris, indicating a serious escalation in Russia's air campaign as government buildings have previously been spared.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that Sunday’s attacks killed four and injured at least 44 others. In talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, he emphasized the urgency in strengthening Ukraine's defenses.
Yuriy Ihnat, an air force spokesperson, confirmed the significance of the event, describing it as the largest Russian drone strike since the full-scale invasion commenced in February 2022. The strikes impacted 33 locations across the nation.
Condemning the attack, Zelenskyy reiterated the need for increased sanctions against Russia and a stronger defensive posture for Ukraine.
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the targeted objectives included military infrastructure and important supply chain facilities, stating that all targeted locations were successfully hit. The ensuing plume of smoke from damaged buildings drew attention to the extensive fallout of the strike.
In the aftermath of the attack, global leaders have renewed their calls for Russia to cease its aggressive actions, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemning the strikes as cowardly and urging support for Ukraine's rights to sovereignty.
As the situation escalates, Zelenskyy signaled his readiness to negotiate with President Putin, underscoring the importance of international support in the effort to stabilize the region. The world watches closely as the conflict continues to unfold amidst calls for urgent diplomatic initiatives.
