WEB DESK: Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone assault across multiple Ukrainian cities overnight Friday, resulting in at least five fatalities and more than 70 injuries.
The attack followed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent vow to respond “very strongly” to a Ukrainian operation targeting Russian military airbases.
Ukraine’s Air Force reported intercepting a majority of the incoming projectiles. According to spokesperson Yuri Ihnat, Ukrainian forces shot down 368 of 407 drones and intercepted 36 of 45 missiles, including four out of six ballistic Iskander missiles launched by Russia.
Air raid alerts were activated nationwide, prompting residents to seek shelter as multiple Russian bombers took off for the attack. Kyiv, the capital city, was hit hardest, with mayor Vitali Klitschko confirming ongoing search and rescue efforts at several affected sites.
The situation remains tense as Ukrainian authorities work to assess the damage and aid the injured, amid ongoing concerns over the escalation of hostilities.
