Russian Drones and Missiles Rain Down on Ukraine: 4 Killed, 70 Injured in Devastating Assault

Russian Strikes Kill 4 in Ukraine as Zelenskyy Urges World Not to "Turn a Blind Eye" In a devastating wave of attacks, Russia launched nearly 600 drones and dozens of missiles on Ukraine on Sunday, killing at least four people and injuring over 70 others. The assault, which marked the first major Russian strike on Ukraine in nearly a month, left Kyiv hardest hit, with residential buildings, medical facilities, kindergartens, and other civilian infrastructure damaged at more than 20 locations. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who spoke with several European leaders, including NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, the attack was a deliberate attempt to target civilians. "We will not turn a blind eye to such actions," Zelenskyy said in a statement. "The world must hold Russia accountable for its aggression." The assault began at approximately 6:00 AM local time on Sunday, with Russian forces firing drones and missiles across the country. Ukrainian officials reported that the attacks targeted residential areas, including apartment buildings, as well as critical infrastructure such as power plants and transportation hubs. Mayor Vitali Klitschko of Kyiv confirmed that four people were killed in the city, including a 12-year-old girl. "The situation is very difficult," Klitschko said. "We are doing everything we can to help those affected." The attack has raised concerns about Russia's intentions and its willingness to escalate violence in Ukraine. The international community has condemned the assault, with many calling for increased pressure on Russia to end its aggression. Background and Context The conflict between Russia and Ukraine began in 2014, when pro-Russian President Viktor Yanukovych was ousted from power. Since then, tensions have escalated, with Russia annexing Crimea and supporting separatist rebels in eastern Ukraine. The current wave of attacks marks a significant escalation of violence, with many fearing that it could lead to further destabilization in the region. Additional Perspectives Experts say that the attack highlights the need for increased international pressure on Russia to end its aggression. "This is a clear indication that Russia is willing to use military force to achieve its goals," said Dr. Maria Zolkina, a Ukraine expert at the Brookings Institution. "The world must come together to condemn this action and demand an end to Russian aggression." Current Status and Next Developments As of Monday morning, Ukrainian officials reported that rescue efforts were ongoing, with emergency services working to evacuate those trapped in damaged buildings. The international community continues to condemn the attack, with many calling for increased pressure on Russia to end its aggression. In a statement, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said, "We stand in solidarity with Ukraine and will continue to support its sovereignty and territorial integrity." The United States has also condemned the attack, with a spokesperson saying that the US is "deeply concerned" about the escalation of violence. As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the world must not turn a blind eye to Russia's aggression. The international community must come together to condemn this action and demand an end to Russian aggression in Ukraine. *Reporting by Npr.*