'Russia keeps vanquishing residential buildings.' Zelenskyy urges NATO to protect Ukraine's skies
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Russia continues to destroy civilian homes with impunity. Volodymyr Zelenskyy states that Ukraine is looking to the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara for decisive action to help stop the terror.
According to the President, Russian forces launched one of their largest overnight attacks on Kyiv and the region, firing 68 missiles and 351 attack drones. Emergency crews are still dealing with the aftermath, with strikes reported at more than 10 locations across the capital, including residential neighborhoods.
Attack toll
- Kyiv: Rescue teams pulled 64 people, including two children, from damaged buildings. Authorities have confirmed 14 deaths, while about 60 people were injured.
- Kyiv region: In the city of Vyshneve, a Russian missile strike sparked a fire in a residential area. Three people were killed, and 16 others were injured, while evacuations are ongoing.
- Rescue operation: More than 400 police officers and emergency responders have been deployed to assist victims and clear the damage.
Zelenskyy said Ukrainian air defenses continue to perform effectively against drones and cruise missiles, but Russian ballistic missiles remain a major challenge due to a shortage of interceptor missiles.
Photo: Zelenskyy calls for stronger protection of Ukraine's skies (RBC-Ukraine infographic)
"It is critically important that the world – first and foremost the United States and our European partners – come out of the NATO Summit in Ankara with strong decisions in support of our air defense, and thus the protection of ordinary people’s lives. As long as Patriot missiles remain in our allies' stockpiles, Russia is only encouraged to keep “vanquishing” residential buildings. The United States and Europe have enough strength to stop this terror," the President said.
