Russian strike on Kyiv kills at least 17 as Zelenskyy urges more air defence
At least 17 people died and over 40 were injured in a Russian attack on Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for more air defence systems, saying interceptors could have saved lives.
The latest wave of Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, has killed at least 17 people and wounded more than 40, according to initial reports. The attack adds to a series of similar incidents that have strained the country's air defence resources.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy immediately appealed to international allies for more air defence systems, stressing that additional ballistic missile interceptors could have saved the lives of those who died. He has repeatedly voiced concerns over shortages for months, warning that the country's ability to protect its cities is gradually diminishing.
The problem has been compounded by the decision of former US President Donald Trump to reverse his earlier commitment to allow Ukraine to manufacture missiles on its own territory. Ukrainian officials had been counting on this arrangement to strengthen domestic production and reduce dependence on foreign supplies. The backtracking has forced Kyiv to rely even more heavily on limited Western aid.
Responding to the attack, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that 'Russia must pay', echoing previous demands for accountability. However, no concrete measures have yet been announced, leaving the question of how Moscow will be held responsible open to debate.
The Guardian's Russia affairs correspondent, Pjotr Sauer, discussed the ongoing situation in a recent episode of the podcast 'The Latest', providing insight into the military and political implications of the attack.
