Russia launches deadly airstrikes across Ukraine, officials declare

Deadly Russian airstrikes wreaked havoc across Ukraine overnight and into early Friday, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Drones and various missiles targeted multiple locations, causing widespread damage in Kyiv, Sumy, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Lviv, according to Ukrainian officials. The extent of casualties and damage remains unclear, but Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal described the onslaught as a “massive Russian airstrike.”

Ukrainian air defense forces are credited with successfully intercepting most of the air targets, showcasing the nation’s determination to protect its citizens. However, the Ukrainian Ministry of Health reported multiple injuries across the country, further emphasizing the toll of the relentless attacks.

The situation in Ukraine has taken a grim turn, with President Volodymyr Zelensky grappling with a stalled counteroffensive nearly two years after the initial Russian invasion. The future of Western military aid to Ukraine remains uncertain, raising concerns about the nation’s ability to withstand the ongoing aggression.

Ukrainian officials call for help to tackle airstrikes

The Head of Ukraine’s Presidential Office, Andriy Yermak, urgently called for international support against the Russian airstrikes. Ukrainian leaders face a daunting challenge as the Ukrainian Air Force detected the departure of nine Tu-95MS strategic bombers from Russia, signaling a sustained aerial assault.

Cities like Kyiv and Kharkiv are under immense pressure, with residents warned of a “UAV threat,” prompting calls to seek shelter. Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko reported at least seven hospitalized and damage to a subway station. In Kharkiv, Mayor Ihor Terekhov described the city as “under massive rocket fire,” resulting in at least one casualty and eight injuries.

The international community closely monitors the situation, witnessing the unfolding crisis in Ukraine. Concerns persist about the escalation of geopolitical tensions and the impact on regional stability, prompting Ukrainian leaders to appeal for additional international support to address the ongoing Russian aggression. The search for victims is underway, with reports of casualties and damage emerging from various locations affected by the devastating airstrikes.