Russian Aerial Assault on Ukraine Lasts 12 Hours, Claims at Least 74 Lives

Breaking News: Zelensky Condemns 'Vile' Russian Strikes Lasting 12 Hours At least four people have been killed and 70 others injured in a 12-hour-long Russian aerial bombardment of Ukraine, with President Volodymyr Zelensky condemning the attack as "vile" and vowing retaliation. Timeline: The barrage began at 22:00 GMT on Saturday evening, with nearly 600 drones and several dozen missiles targeting seven regions of Ukraine. The attack continued until early Sunday morning, with anti-aircraft fire and explosions punctuating the night sky in Kyiv. Immediate Impact: The victims include a 12-year-old girl, who was among those killed in the capital city. Zelensky warned that Ukraine would retaliate against Russia's "vile" attack, which he said showed Moscow's intention to continue fighting and killing. The Russian military claimed it targeted military facilities and industrial enterprises supporting Ukraine's armed forces. Background Context: Aerial bombardments have become a regular occurrence in Ukraine, with many residents growing accustomed to the sound of sirens and explosions on Saturday evenings. However, the scale and intensity of this attack are unprecedented, highlighting the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine. What Happens Next: As the situation continues to unfold, international attention is focused on the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Ukraine. The United Nations has called for an emergency meeting to discuss the latest developments, while Western leaders have condemned the Russian attack as a clear breach of international law. In response to Zelensky's vow of retaliation, Russia has issued a statement warning of "consequences" for Ukraine's actions. Technical Analysis: The use of nearly 600 drones and several dozen missiles in this attack highlights the increasing reliance on AI-powered military technology by both sides in the conflict. The ability to launch such a large-scale assault with precision and speed raises questions about the role of AI in modern warfare, as well as its potential implications for civilian casualties and global security. Sources: This article is based on confirmed reports from President Zelensky's office and official statements from the Russian military. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. *This story is developing. Information compiled from Bbc reporting.*