Russian Missile Strikes Kill 4 in Ukraine, Zelenskyy Demands Air Defense/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ At least four people were killed and 20 wounded in Russian missile and drone attacks across Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed calls for advanced air defense systems from Western allies. Civilians in Kyiv continued daily life amid smoke and destruction, showcasing Ukraine’s resilience.
Russian Missile Attacks in Ukraine: Quick Looks
- Four killed, 20 injured: Overnight Russian missile and drone attacks struck multiple areas in Ukraine.
- Kyiv under fire: Two civilians died in the capital, where ballistic missiles triggered widespread damage.
- Dnipropetrovsk region hit: Another two people were killed, and seven injured in the strikes.
- Ukraine’s air defense: The military intercepted 4 of 9 missiles and 50 of 62 drones launched.
- Zelenskyy calls for Patriots: The Ukrainian president asked the U.S. and allies for more air defense systems.
- Civilians continue daily life: Despite missile attacks, markets in Kyiv reopened as usual.
- Push for long-range weapons: Zelenskyy also urged the U.S. to supply Tomahawk missiles.
- Russia’s response: Russian officials claim 121 Ukrainian drones were intercepted over Russian territory.
Russian Missile Strikes Kill 4 in Ukraine, Zelenskyy Demands Air Defense
Deep Look
KYIV, Ukraine — Russia launched a series of deadly missile and drone strikes overnight into Saturday, killing at least four civilians and injuring over 20 others across Ukraine. The attacks reignited urgent calls from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for increased air defense assistance from the country’s Western allies.
In the capital city of Kyiv, two civilians were confirmed dead and at least 13 wounded following a ballistic missile assault early Saturday. Ukraine’s State Emergency Services reported fires and falling missile debris damaging multiple buildings. Mayor Vitali Klitschko stated that the city was under “ballistic attack” as explosions rocked residential areas.
The Dnipropetrovsk region also suffered deadly consequences. According to acting governor Vladyslav Haivanenko, two people died and seven were injured after Russian forces struck private homes and apartment buildings.
Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia launched nine missiles and 62 drones in total. Of those, four missiles and 50 drones were intercepted. Still, the damage was widespread and devastating.
In Russia, the Ministry of Defense claimed its own air defenses shot down 121 Ukrainian drones overnight, signaling intensifying hostilities on both sides.
Zelenskyy Calls for Air Defense Support
President Zelenskyy took to social media to reiterate his appeal for Patriot air defense systems from the United States and NATO partners.
“It is precisely because of such attacks that we pay special attention to Patriot systems — to be able to protect our cities from this horror,” Zelenskyy said. He emphasized that Western nations such as the U.S., G7, and European Union hold the capability to help prevent further civilian deaths by expediting military aid.
His request comes as Ukraine faces growing pressure on its power infrastructure and military readiness ahead of another harsh winter.
Life Goes On Amid Chaos
In Kyiv, despite explosions and rising smoke, civilians continued with their day-to-day routines. A farmer’s market in the city center reopened, with vendors and customers seemingly unfazed by the recent attack.
“We didn’t know the attack was right here, but even when we figured it out, we still came,” said fruit and vegetable vendor Halyna Stetsiura. “People still need to eat.”
Beekeeper Serhi Lihus, who was driving to the market at the time of the explosions, echoed the sentiment. “Everything was on fire, but I still had honey to sell,” he said.
These scenes highlight the remarkable resilience of the Ukrainian people who refuse to let terror disrupt their daily lives.
Push for Long-Range Missiles and Sanctions
Zelenskyy’s call for support didn’t stop at air defense systems. The president also urged Washington to send long-range Tomahawk missiles and to broaden sanctions targeting the Russian oil sector.
He raised these points during a summit in London, attended by more than two dozen European leaders. The event, hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, focused on increasing support for Ukraine and applying further pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The leaders also discussed safeguarding Ukraine’s energy grid, supplying long-range weapons, and enhancing missile defense as winter nears.
Zelenskyy argued that expanded sanctions and stronger military tools are necessary to push Russia back and to prevent further civilian casualties.
Diplomatic Developments
In a surprising twist, Kirill Dmitriev, a top Russian envoy, stated that diplomatic negotiations between Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. might be closer than anticipated. He indicated that a planned summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin could still take place later in Budapest, despite recent delays.
However, President Trump said this week that such a meeting was “on hold,” suggesting the conditions were not yet right. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov publicly rejected the idea of an immediate ceasefire.
A White House official confirmed that Dmitriev is scheduled to meet U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff in Washington, though no formal diplomatic breakthrough has yet been announced.
You must Register or Login to post a comment.