**Ukraine Under Attack: At Least 6 Civilians Killed and 18 Injured in Russian Drone Assault**
In the latest wave of aggression, Russia launched a barrage of 138 drones overnight, including Iranian-designed Shahed-type suicide drones, against Ukraine. The attacks, which took place across multiple regions, resulted in at least six civilians being killed and 18 others wounded.
The deadliest attacks occurred in Donetsk Oblast, where six people lost their lives and four more were injured. Governor Vadym Filashkin reported that three civilians died in Bagatyr, two in Pokrovsk, and one in Kostyantynivka. The region has been a hotspot for Russian aggression, with ongoing offensive operations targeting critical infrastructure and residential areas.
In other regions, seven people were injured in Kherson Oblast after Russian forces struck critical infrastructure and residential neighborhoods, damaging eight houses. Three women aged 71, 62, and 27 were wounded in Kupiansk, Kharkiv Oblast, where air defenses have been intensified in recent weeks.
**Russian Escalation Continues**
The latest drone attacks come as Russia continues to escalate its aerial campaign, rejecting calls for a ceasefire. Ukrainian officials have urged Western partners to bolster air defense capabilities as drone and missile attacks persist. The situation on the ground remains dire, with Russian forces carrying out hundreds of strikes on settlements across Ukraine.
**International Community Speaks Out**
The international community has condemned Russia’s actions, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that sanctions are critical to bringing Russia to the negotiating table and ending the war. The EU chief also emphasized the need for peaceful strength to secure a real ceasefire.
**Ukraine’s Response**
Ukraine’s Air Force reported that air defenses intercepted 125 drones, while another 41 dropped off radars – likely used as decoys to overload Ukrainian systems. The assault was repelled using aviation, electronic warfare units, mobile fire groups, and anti-aircraft missile systems.
**Global Repercussions**
The ongoing conflict is having far-reaching repercussions globally. North Korea has lost over 6,000 troops in Russia’s Kursk Oblast – more than half of its deployed force, according to a UK defense intelligence report. The international community is also sounding the alarm about the escalating situation, with American business leaders warning that Russian actions are hitting American interests.
**What’s Next?**
The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to address the crisis. The anticipated third meeting between US and Ukrainian officials will focus on sanctions, peace talks, weapons purchases, and economic relations – and may shed light on the future of U.S. support for Ukraine.
