In a dramatic escalation of tensions, reports from Ukrainian media outlets have confirmed that Russia has initiated significant missile strikes targeting Ukrainian cities, including Lviv and Kyiv.
The strikes, carried out using Tu-95 and MiG-31 strategic bombers and featuring the deployment of “Kinzhal” missiles, have intensified the conflict between the two nations.
The Ukrainian Air Force swiftly responded to the attacks by issuing air alerts across numerous regions. At least four MiG-31s were reported airborne, engaging in assaults on the capital city of Kyiv and the Lviv region in western Ukraine.
A spokesperson for the Air Force communicated the occurrence of multiple Kinzhal missile launches via the Telegram app, underscoring the scale of the offensive.
Explosions were heard in the Zaporizhzhia region, with renewed strikes reported in Kharkiv. Mayor Igor Terekhov revealed that at least 10 attacks targeted critical infrastructure in the city and its surrounding areas, exacerbating the challenges already faced by residents.
Disruptions in electricity supply led to the suspension of metro services in Kharkiv, further disrupting daily life. While initial reports have not indicated casualties from the latest strikes, the situation remains fluid and evolving.
However, yesterday’s tragic events in Kharkiv serve as a grim reminder of the humanitarian toll of the conflict. A 14-year-old girl and two women aged 43 and 59 lost their lives in the previous attacks, with additional injuries sustained by a boy and a young woman.
In a retaliatory move, Ukrainian forces launched a drone strike targeting Russia’s western Kursk region. Regional governor Roman Starovoit confirmed that three individuals, including two children, lost their lives as a result of the strike.
Subsequently, an air alert was declared in the neighbouring Voronezh region, signalling the widening scope of the conflict and the heightened state of alert in border areas.
The escalating violence underscores the urgent need for diplomatic intervention to de-escalate the situation and prevent further loss of life. The international community has condemned the use of military force and called for restraint from both sides.
Efforts are underway to facilitate dialogue and negotiation to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict. As tensions continue to mount, the world watches with growing concern, hoping for a swift and peaceful resolution to the crisis.
This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members