Russian missile strikes hit Kyiv, injuring dozens as Ukraine appeals for aid

In a devastating attack on Kyiv, a barrage of Russian missiles struck the city, causing injuries to dozens and damaging a children’s hospital, officials reported on Wednesday.

The Ukrainian air force claimed to have successfully intercepted all 10 missiles aimed at the city, but the health ministry confirmed 53 casualties, including two children, primarily caused by shattered glass, household items, and shockwaves.

The strikes unfolded before dawn, with residents hearing several explosions and subsequent air raid sirens. Interior Minister Igor Klymenko revealed damage to a kindergarten building, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the assault on civilian infrastructure.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the military’s response and vowed to strengthen the nation’s air defenses. Expressing outrage on social media, he criticized Russia for launching rockets at night, targeting residential areas, kindergartens, and critical facilities during winter.

Zelensky’s visit to Norway coincided with the attacks, where he engaged in discussions with Nordic leaders, key donors to Ukraine. Acknowledging the nation’s need for assistance, Zelensky emphasized the importance of preserving Ukraine despite facing challenges.

Despite a counter-offensive launched by Ukraine in June yielding limited success, Zelensky faces the challenge of rebuilding support among allies. Concurrently, Russian forces have escalated their offensive in various regions of eastern and southern Ukraine.

The strikes on Kyiv followed a massive hacking attack on Ukraine’s top telecoms operator, raising concerns of potential Russian involvement. Zelensky’s recent visit to Washington did not secure congressional approval for a new $60 billion aid package, but President Joe Biden pledged ongoing support for supplying critical weapons and equipment.

Facing a divided Congress, Zelensky remains resolute, rejecting any concessions of territory taken by Russia since the 2022 invasion. As the conflict continues, the European Union grapples with internal divisions, particularly from Hungary, a close ally of Russia, regarding support for Ukraine.

The European Union summit this week is expected to address Ukraine’s bid for membership, with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen urging leaders to provide substantial financial aid. Missile strikes also targeted the southern port of Odesa, where Iranian-made Shahed drones were downed, causing injuries and infrastructure damage.

Wednesday’s strike, the second within a week, disrupted the relative calm Kyiv had experienced, prompting concerns about an escalation of “missile terror” in the region. The situation remains fluid as Ukraine pleads for international assistance to confront the mounting challenges it faces.