Russia launched what might be the biggest Aerial strike of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Friday night. They sent 122 missiles and drones overnight to Ukraine killing 30 civilians, injuring many more, and destroying cities across the country.
One civilian spoke out about how she felt the moment a missile hit the ground. “There was an explosion, then flames. I covered my head and got down in the street. Then I ran into the subway station,” she said.
The bombardment lasted over 18 hours and injured over 140 people, not including those who were buried under rubble and debris. Buildings in Ukraine, like apartments and schools, were fully damaged by the attack leading to debris covering the area.
The Air Force stated that they intercepted many of the missiles coming into Ukraine during the middle of the night. Russia previously performed the biggest aerial strike on Ukraine in 2022 when they launched 96 missiles, but this most recent strike broke the record.
Some are saying this was to be expected as there was speculation about Russia building a stockpile for the wintertime and launching strikes and attacks such as this one.
The attack targeted six different cities and destroyed important buildings, such as factories, homes, and health stations. Civilians spoke of fires breaking out, drone attacks, missiles, and rescue teams trying to get people to safety.
Following this attack, Ukraine is pushing for more help in its air defense department and support from surrounding countries. There are huge concerns that Ukraine will not be able to get the appropriate resources from outside sources to properly defend itself.
Joe Biden addressed these concerns and Ukraine’s future saying, ”Congress must step up and act. Unless Congress takes urgent action in the new year, we will not be able to continue sending the weapons and vital air defense systems Ukraine needs to protect its people. ”
Rishi Sunak, the British Prime Minister, even discussed the lengths that Russia will go to and how important it is to stand with Ukraine. “These widespread attacks on Ukraine’s cities show Putin will stop at nothing to achieve his aim of eradicating freedom and democracy,” he said.
Concern that this isn’t the last attack like this is rising and many worry about the escalation of this war and the ability to support Ukraine with the escalation.
