Russia launches one of war's largest air attacks on Kyiv
Russia has executed one of its most extensive air assaults on Kyiv since the onset of the war, including an attack on a maternity ward in Odesa, resulting in at least three fatalities, according to officials. These overnight strikes followed a significant drone attack on Ukraine, which Moscow claims is retaliation for Ukrainian actions against Russia.
The assault also damaged the historic Saint Sophia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, prompting Ukrainian Culture Minister Mykola Tochytskyi to express that the attack targeted the essence of Ukrainian identity. Explosions rocked Kyiv, with reports of heavy smoke and fire, while local authorities deployed firefighting helicopters to combat the flames.
In the capital, one individual was reported dead and several others injured across multiple districts. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy described these strikes as one of the largest attacks on Kyiv, hindering international efforts to broker peace.
In Odesa, a drone strike targeted an emergency medical facility and residential areas, leading to two deaths. Fortunately, patients and staff at the maternity hospital were evacuated safely. Survivors recounted harrowing experiences during the attacks.
Despite both sides denying the targeting of civilians, thousands have lost their lives in this conflict. Russia's defense ministry stated that military targets were hit with precision weapons.
Air raid alerts persisted for several hours, and Ukraine's air force reported downing a significant number of drones and missiles. Following Ukraine's recent strikes on Russian military bases, Moscow has intensified its offensive.
Ukrainian leaders have called for stronger international measures and support to compel Russia toward peace, amid ongoing tensions and stalled peace negotiations.
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