Ukraine Continues to Reel from Devastating Russian Missile Blitz: Death, Major Power Outages, Kyiv Under Fire

Russia's recent large-scale missile and drone assault on Ukraine resulted in at least three deaths and widespread power outages across the country.

The offensive, which involved over 200 missiles and drones, primarily targeted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the extensive damage and urged for increased international support, particularly in the form of air defense systems.

In Kyiv, dramatic footage captured the aftermath of a major strike on the Hydroelectric Power Plant (HPP) in Vyshgorod, located just north of the capital.

While the dam itself appeared structurally intact, surrounding buildings suffered severe damage. The attacks also affected several other cities, including Lutsk, Kharkiv, and Dnipro.

The city of Kyiv experienced explosions and thick black smoke as Ukrainian air defenses engaged the incoming threats. Ukrainian forces successfully intercepted around 15 missiles and 15 drones, preventing further damage.

NATO responded to the escalating threat by deploying warplanes to patrol its eastern borders. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal called on Western allies to expedite the delivery of long-range missiles to enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.

The Russian offensive utilized strategic bombers such as the Tu-95 and Tu-22M3, along with Iranian-designed kamikaze drones, demonstrating a coordinated and multifaceted attack strategy.

In retaliation, Ukraine launched strikes on key Russian targets, including the Engels airbase, which serves as a crucial hub for Russian strategic bombers.

Tensions with Belarus also escalated, with Ukraine accusing Minsk of concentrating troops along the border. Ukraine warned Belarus to withdraw its forces to avoid further escalation.

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Additionally, the missile strike on Kramatorsk, which hit the Hotel Sapphire, resulted in the death of former British soldier Ryan Evans. Evans, a safety advisor for Reuters, was part of a six-person team staying at the hotel. The attack also injured two of his colleagues.