Overnight, Russia launched over 700 missiles and drones into Ukraine in one of the most intensive aerial attacks it has carried out. According to local officials, the large-scale attack resulted in at least 17 deaths and dozens of injuries.
These strikes were just days after the Easter ceasefire that both sides claimed to have violated. Conflict, which started in 2022 continues to escalate without an end in sight.
Major Cities Hit Hard by Heavy Casualties
Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv confirmed at least 45 injuries in the capital. Rescue teams rescued residents from a 16-storey residential building that collapsed in Podil.
There are widespread damage and power outages
Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia had launched 659 drones, and 44 missiles in 24 hours. Most of the strikes were intercepted by defense systems, but 26 sites still suffered damage.
Ukraine Calls for Stronger Global Response
Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, condemned the attack. He also called for stronger sanctions to be imposed on Russia. He said that Ukraine was running out of Patriot missiles which are crucial for stopping threats from ballistics.
Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian foreign minister and spokesman for the government of Ukraine, described these strikes as war crimes and urged allies to intensify their support and put more pressure on Moscow.
Ukraine also awaits a large financial package to help support the economy and defense of its country from the European Union.
Russia reports casualties in Ukrainian strike
In the meantime, Russia has reported that a drone strike by Ukraine in southern Krasnodar caused casualties.
War on-going and Stalled Peace Efforts
Now in its fifth year, the war is still going on. Despite multiple attempts at peace negotiations, the pace of progress in recent months has been slow. Although the United States was mediating previously, its attention has now shifted to tensions in Middle East.
Ukraine is still pressing for an immediate cessation of hostilities as the first step towards peace. Russia, however, insists on a wider agreement first. This raises doubts as to any immediate resolution.
