Russia launched a record-breaking 550 drones and missiles at sites around Ukraine, with a primary focus on the capital Kyiv, in one of the most concentrated attacks since the start of the full-scale invasion.
During the midnight strike, 11 ballistic missiles and 539 Shahed drones were fired, according to Ukraine‘s air force. For hours, the sky above Kyiv was illuminated by explosions as air defenses frantically tried to stop the swarm.
Numerous residential neighborhoods and railway lines were damaged, and authorities verified at least one death and over 23 injuries.
Kyiv and Other Cities Are Affected:
- There were fires in residential areas like Solomjanka.
- There was a brief disruption in Kyiv’s rail service.
- The primary objective was Kyiv, but critical infrastructure in Lviv and Dnipro was also targeted.
Ukraine’s Defense Ministry described it as “one of the darkest nights” of the year, stressing that the attack was intended to intimidate civilians and overwhelm air defenses.
Trump Attacks Putin After a Frustrating Call:
Just hours before the strikes started, former US President Donald Trump disclosed that he spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the phone. When addressing reporters, Trump stated:
“I’m really let down. He doesn’t seem to be trying to stop.
Trump continued by calling the escalation “completely insane” and implying that the Biden administration’s inability to restock American weapons stockpiles had undermined international deterrence.
As U.S. aid slows, Ukraine seeks more air defense:
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the president of Ukraine, spoke with Trump separately after the Russian strike to explore measures to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses. Since some U.S. military aid shipments have been halted or delayed, the nation has been asking for more Patriot missile systems and Stinger missiles.
In order to reinforce support for Ukraine’s defense operations, European allies are getting ready for a significant conference on July 10.
- The attack was denounced and continuous military support was promised by Germany, the United Kingdom, and France.
- Officials from the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry charged Moscow with intensifying the conflict with complete disrespect for international diplomacy.
- Concerned about the civilian casualties, humanitarian groups demanded immediate safety precautions.
Source: DW News and other media outlets
