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Russian military launches missile and drone strikes on Kyiv region and five other Ukrainian areas in overnight assault

A lightning flash illuminates the sky over Kyiv during an air raid alert amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, June 12, 2024. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

 

Russian forces launched missiles and drones at the Kyiv region and five other areas of Ukraine in a nighttime assault, officials reported on Wednesday. This occurred as the war, now in its third year, precedes several days of concentrated diplomatic efforts.

Ukraine's air force reported shooting down over two dozen air targets, including cruise missiles, a Kinzhal ballistic missile, and Shahed drones. Authorities noted several injuries resulting from the attacks.

Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commended the air force's swift response, suggesting it could become a "daily achievement" with adequate tools to repel Russian assaults. Zelenskyy has persistently urged Ukraine's Western allies to supply additional air defense systems, with the United States agreeing to send another Patriot missile system, as confirmed by two U.S. officials on Tuesday night.

Supporting Ukraine's efforts to halt Russia's invasion will take center stage in upcoming international meetings.

Kyiv's forces, facing superior Russian numbers and firepower, are engaged in a desperate defense to protect vulnerable areas. Recent months have seen Ukraine grappling with shortages of troops, ammunition, and air defenses as Russian forces target critical infrastructure and attempt to breach the eastern front lines.

Military analysts anticipate Ukraine must endure sustained Russian assaults through the summer. They emphasize the urgent need for Kyiv to bolster its forces, fortify defenses, and accelerate Western military aid deliveries to potentially mount a counteroffensive by 2025.

The Group of Seven (G7) leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, are set to convene this Thursday in Italy for their annual summit. Their agenda includes discussions on leveraging frozen Russian assets to secure additional financial support for Ukraine. Simultaneously, defense chiefs from the U.S., Europe, and other nations will meet in Brussels to address Ukraine's security requirements.

Later, nearly 90 countries and organizations will participate in a Swiss-hosted peace summit focused on Ukraine, excluding Russia. Both sides in Europe's gravest conflict since World War II are rallying support from allies to sustain their military capabilities. The toll of the war is devastating, with the United Nations reporting over 11,000 Ukrainian civilian deaths among tens of thousands of casualties.

While Ukraine seeks support from Western allies, Russian President Vladimir Putin explores partnerships with countries like Iran and North Korea for military assistance. Reports suggest Putin may visit North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for the third time, underscoring Russia's unyielding stance in the conflict.

On Wednesday, the Kremlin confirmed Putin's discussions with top defense officials on plans to continue military operations. The fighting remains concentrated along the 1,000-kilometer front line, particularly in the Donetsk and Kharkiv regions. Russian forces aim to secure strategic locations, despite facing resistance and logistical challenges, notably in the Vovchansk area of the Kharkiv region.

The situation remains fluid, with international diplomacy and military strategies shaping the course of this protracted and devastating conflict in Eastern Europe.