Russian Attacks Kill 18 Across Ukraine

Russia launched hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles across Ukraine early Tuesday, killing at least 18 people, days after threatening a large-scale assault and warning foreign citizens to leave Kyiv, Maria Kostenko reported for Agence France-Presse (AFP).

Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched 73 missiles and 656 drones during the assault. (Photo: State Border Guard Service of Ukraine)

President Volodymyr Zelensky used the attack to renew calls for increased Western military support.

“Europe needs its own anti-ballistic defense so that this war can finally be brought to an end. And assistance from the United States in supplying missiles for Patriot systems is absolutely necessary,” Zelensky wrote on social media.

Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched 73 missiles and 656 drones during the assault, adding that its air defenses intercepted 602 drones and 40 missiles.

Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga described the strikes as evidence of Russian desperation, accusing President Vladimir Putin of targeting civilians as Moscow struggles on the battlefield.

“Putin is a war criminal and loser who has no cards except terror. Moscow is losing on the battlefield. No number of missiles can change this,” Sybiga said in a statement posted on social media.