Russia launches air attack on Ukraine's capital of Kyiv, mayor says

Russia launches air attack on Ukraine's capital of Kyiv, mayor says

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine escalated dramatically overnight, with both countries engaging in heavy aerial attacks. According to reports from ABC News [1], Ukrainian authorities confirmed the deployment of over 100 enemy drones, while Russia claimed responsibility for shooting down 126 Ukrainian drones. Meanwhile, CNN reported [2] that Russia had launched a barrage of cruise and ballistic missiles, as well as nearly 200 drones, targeting various regions in Ukraine.

These attacks come just one day after Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss details of the American proposal for a 30-day ceasefire [1]. However, it seems that the proposed truce has not yet taken effect.

One of the most significant impacts of Russia's assault was felt in the city of Volgograd, where falling drone debris caused a fire close to a Lukoil oil refinery [1]. Although no casualties were reported, this incident highlights the potential danger posed by these attacks to civilians and critical infrastructure.

Volgograd is not the only region to have experienced the consequences of Russia's aggression. Local media outlets reported that nearby airports temporarily halted flights due to the drone activity [1]. Additionally, Ukraine's air force stated that Russia had launched a total of 178 drones, resulting in the loss of 38 drones en route to their targets [2].

The ongoing aerial assaults have led Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to renew his call for a partial ceasefire [2]. This proposal was first suggested by French President Emmanuel Macron and was discussed at a crucial meeting of Ukraine's European allies in Brussels [2]. With the United States suspending military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv [2], it remains to be seen whether the international community will provide sufficient support for Ukraine to withstand Russia's relentless attacks.

References:
[1] ABC News. (2023, March 7). Russia, Ukraine trade heavy aerial blows overnight amid proposed ceasefire. https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/russia-ukraine-launch-aerial-attacks-amid-proposed-ceasefire-119826327
[2] CNN. (2023, March 7). Russia fires cruise, ballistic missiles at Ukraine, renewing Kyiv's plea for partial ceasefire. https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/07/world/russia-aerial-assault-ukraine-us-pause-military-aid-intl/index.html