Dozens of people lost their lives in Ukraine in Russia’s biggest missile bombing unprecedented destruction occurred. Ukraine has described it as Russia’s most widespread missile bombardment of the war, killing at least 30 and injuring more than 160. The attacks targeted major cities including Kiev, Odesa, Dnipro, Kharkiv and Lviv in the early hours of Friday morning.
Diverse Arsenal Deployed
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia used almost every type of weapon in its arsenal, causing widespread destruction. Civilian structures affected included homes and even a maternity hospital. The Ukrainian Air Force, which previously boasted superior protection, was finding itself overwhelmed as Russia used hypersonic, cruise and ballistic missiles, including the elusive X-22 type.
Unprecedented Scale of Attack
The Air Force acknowledged the unique nature of the attack, revealing that out of 158 missiles and drones launched, 114 were successfully intercepted. The black smoke billowing from several blast sites exemplifies the devastating impact of direct missile attacks.
Painful Scenes of Kyiv
In Kiev, a 200-meter-long warehouse owned by a construction company was completely hollowed out, exemplifying the level of devastation caused by missile attacks. Nine people lost their lives in Kiev, including casualties at a metro station serving as an air-raid shelter.
Widespread Influence Beyond Kyiv
The western city of Lviv, which is usually spared the worst of the attack, faced attacks from more than 10 Iranian-made Shahed drones and 15 missiles. Casualties and significant damage were reported in Konotop and Odesa in the Sumy region near the northern border. Kharkiv, accustomed to missile attacks, experienced an unprecedented 20 attacks, resulting in casualties and damage to a hospital and residential buildings.
Sad Morning for Many Areas
The Dnipropetrovsk region suffered tragedy as a shopping centre and a maternity hospital in Dnipro were targeted, resulting in six deaths and 28 injuries. Zaporizhia reported eight deaths following attacks on infrastructure.
International Implications
A Russian missile briefly entered Polish airspace, adding an international dimension to the conflict.
United Nations humanitarian concerns
Denis Browne, the UN humanitarian envoy for Ukraine, expressed deep concern that the attacks have left a trail of destruction, death and human suffering, underscoring the horrific reality faced by the Ukrainian people.
Motivations Behind Growth
Russia’s deliberate move
The timing of the bombing raises questions about Russia’s intentions. Analysts suggest that despite the reduction in missile stockpiles, Moscow aims to continue repressing Ukraine’s population, hoping to eliminate their support for the ongoing war.
Counterinsurgency?
The attacks coincided with the destruction of a major Russian landing ship in Ukraine-occupied Crimea and the final delivery of a $250 million military aid package from the US. There is a lot of speculation about whether the missile attack was in retaliation or a strategic statement.
International Response
Biden’s strict warning
US President Joe Biden condemned the attack, stressing that it was a reminder of Putin’s unchanged aim to destroy Ukraine and subjugate its people. He called for action to stop Putin’s aggression.
Uncertain future for Ukraine
As Ukraine faces renewed and intensified attacks, questions are being raised about its ability to withstand ongoing drone and missile attacks across the country. The uncertain future remains a significant concern for the country’s security.
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