A Russian attack involving ballistic missiles and drones has resulted in the deaths of at least 17 people in Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasizing that more air defence interceptors could have saved lives. This overnight assault, occurring shortly after midnight on Wednesday, ranks among the year’s deadliest in Kyiv and its surrounding region. The attack also left at least 45 people injured and caused significant damage to residential buildings, a railway station, and several warehouses.
Despite repeated requests to Western allies for additional US-made Patriot missile interceptors, Ukraine reported an inability to intercept any ballistic missiles during the attack. Zelensky responded to the strikes by highlighting that delays in procuring advanced air defence systems leave Ukrainian cities vulnerable to severe attacks.
The Ukrainian president pointed out that a shortage of anti-ballistic missile interceptors has led to “horrific casualties and destruction.” He further revealed that supplies of these crucial defence systems from international partners have markedly decreased this year.
Meanwhile, Russia’s Ministry of Defence confirmed the strikes, stating they targeted military logistics hubs and supply facilities in Kyiv and its vicinity. According to the ministry, these locations were used for storing, transporting, and distributing weapons, military equipment, and unmanned aerial vehicles.
Additionally, Russia reported that its forces attacked three cargo vessels near the Black Sea port of Odesa, claiming the ships were carrying weapons and military hardware.
