Following an overnight attack that resulted in at least 20 fatalities in Ukraine, the Kremlin declared it intends to accelerate its offensive operations to fulfill its objectives.
Kyiv has called on its Western allies to make prompt decisions regarding air defence and sanctions after a widespread Russian missile and drone strike on the Ukrainian capital caused at least 20 deaths, with numbers expected to rise.
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Residential areas and civilian infrastructure sustained damage in what is described as one of the most severe attacks on Kyiv in recent months. Emergency responders continued their rescue efforts on Thursday.
“War criminal Putin wages only despicable and terroristic assaults against civilians, including women and children,” stated Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on X.
“These attacks constitute serious war crimes, and we are notifying all partners and international bodies, demanding accountability and decisive actions.”
Sybiha urged Ukraine’s western allies to expedite the provision of air defence systems and interceptor missiles following a “nightmarish night,” warning against further postponements.
“Immediate decisions are necessary regarding air defence systems and missiles for Ukraine, not delays!” he emphasized.
Sources within the Ukrainian diplomatic circles confirmed to Euronews that information on the overnight strikes has already been conveyed to NATO allies, who are set to convene in Ankara for the summit next week.
Kyiv highlights that significant strikes—especially those involving ballistic missiles, like Moscow’s attack overnight Thursday—are enhancing allies’ awareness of both the risks involved and the weaknesses in Ukraine’s air defence systems.
Ukrainian officials have frequently underscored the stark difference between nights when adequate anti-ballistic systems were operational and those when only a fraction of incoming missiles could be intercepted, stressing this contrast in their briefings to partners.
Meanwhile, Russia has indicated no alteration in its strategy. Following the recent assault on Kyiv, the Kremlin asserted it would intensify its campaign against Ukraine.
“Russia will persist in increasing pressure on the Kyiv regime to meet the objectives we have established,” stated spokesman Dmitry Peskov to reporters.