Russia launched a massive strike overnight on Ukraine targeting its defence industry, which killed nine people and injured over 80, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He added nearly 70 missiles, including ballistic were fired, and 150 drone attacks were carried out.
The massive strike damaged plants in Kyiv that produced “rocket fuel and gunpowder.”
“Overnight, the Russian armed forces carried out a massive strike with long-range air, land and sea-based weapons, and drones, on Ukraine’s aviation, aerospace, machine-building and armoured vehicle industries,” the Russian defence ministry said, adding, “The objectives of the strike have been achieved”.
Condemning the attack, the Ukrainian president said that Russia has been violating the peace talks for the last 44 days and has been continuously killing people.
“It has been 44 days since Ukraine agreed to a full ceasefire and a halt to strikes. This was a proposal from the United States. And it has been 44 days of Russia continuing to kill our people and evading tough pressure and accountability for its actions,” he said.
“It is extremely important that everyone around the world sees and understands what is really happening. Nearly 70 missiles, including ballistic ones. And about 150 attack drones,” he added.
Zelenskyy in a post on X said that the Russian strike has caused significant damage, and rescue operations are ongoing. He condoled the lives lost, saying, “My condolences go out to their families and loved ones.”
He has directed the defence ministry to contact its partners, requesting to strengthen air defences.
Following the strike, Zelenskyy cut short his trip to South Africa and said he is returning “home after Russia strike Kyiv.”
“Today, I will brief President Ramaphosa of South Africa, who currently holds the G20 Presidency, on the situation and our need to intensify global diplomatic efforts. The strikes must be stopped immediately and unconditionally. We also count on support in humanitarian matters — in the return of our prisoners and Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. I am canceling part of the program for this visit and will return to Ukraine immediately after the meeting with the President of South Africa,” he added in the post.
