Kyiv and Kharkiv, Ukraine's capital and second-largest city, experienced severe missile attacks from Russia, resulting in at least five casualties. The assault occurred a day after Vladimir Putin's declaration that Russia would escalate its offensive against Ukraine. Explosions echoed across all districts of Kyiv on Tuesday, causing substantial damage to residential buildings and civilian infrastructure.
Footage shared on social media depicted the aftermath, revealing the destruction caused by the missile strikes. Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported an elderly woman's death and at least 41 injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy credited western-provided defense systems, such as the Patriot missile system, for saving lives and preventing further casualties.
Despite Russia's intensified attacks, Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted all incoming missiles during the latest assault. Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, the head of the army, provided details on the effectiveness of Ukraine's defense systems, including thwarting cruise missiles.
Kharkiv, located near the Russian border, also suffered casualties, with one person killed and 41 wounded due to missile strikes on the city center. The attacks followed Putin's warning of increased strikes in response to a Ukrainian assault on the Russian border city of Belgorod.
In his recent address to Russian soldiers, Putin expressed confidence in Russia holding the "strategic initiative" in the war. He emphasized Russia's commitment to intensify strikes, vowing to punish any crimes against civilians. Putin's remarks came amid an escalation of hostilities since last Friday, with the largest single attack by Russia resulting in at least 41 civilian deaths.
International calls for support and funding for Ukraine have amplified, with US Ambassador Bridget Brink urging urgent assistance. The failure of the US Congress to approve $50 billion in security aid and uncertainties about a €50 billion EU package have raised concerns about the support Ukraine needs to withstand the conflict.
President Zelenskiy, in a defiant interview, rejected the notion that Russia was winning the nearly two-year-old war. He emphasized Europe's role in protecting itself by supporting Ukraine and highlighted the need to continue hitting Russia's strengths in Crimea. Zelenskiy expressed skepticism about Russia's willingness to negotiate, citing ongoing missile attacks as evidence of a "terrorist country." The escalating violence underscores the urgent need for international aid to address the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.