**Russia’s Ongoing Attacks on Ukraine Leave 11 Civilians Dead and 113 Injured**
In the latest developments of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, at least 11 civilians have been killed and 113 others injured in Russian attacks across various Ukrainian regions over the past day. The attacks targeted residential areas, civilian infrastructure, and even a bakery, causing extensive damage and loss of life.
**Kharkiv Under Attack**
The city of Kharkiv was particularly affected by Russian missile strikes on April 18, killing at least one person and injuring at least 74 others, including children. The attack damaged over 20 apartment buildings, 30 houses, and an educational institution. A fire broke out on the premises of an enterprise, covering an area of 450 square meters.
**Regional Updates**
In other parts of Ukraine, Russian attacks also took a heavy toll:
* In Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, two people were killed and five injured in a heavy artillery strike against the city of Nikopol.
* Donetsk Oblast reported three civilians killed and six injured in Russian attacks.
* Kherson Oblast saw four people killed and 25 injured, including a child, with nine high-rise buildings and 10 houses damaged.
**Ukraine Responds**
The Ukrainian military has reportedly shot down 23 drones and three cruise missiles, while also destroying 115 units of Russian military equipment. The country’s President Volodymyr Zelensky met with a pro-Ukraine U.S. Congressman to discuss peace and security guarantees for Ukraine.
**International Response**
The international community continues to condemn Russia’s actions:
* French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot emphasized the importance of reaffirming support for Ukraine.
* Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated Italy’s commitment to defending Ukraine’s freedom.
* The U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated that President Donald Trump and the United States want this war to end.
**Commentary**
The ongoing attacks by Russia on Ukrainian civilians highlight the need for a full ceasefire, which Moscow continues to reject. As reported by Mayor Ihor Terekhov, the strikes on Kharkiv were carried out with ballistic missiles equipped with cluster munitions, causing extensive damage.
“It is simply unrealistic to talk about a (full) ceasefire at this stage,” said Russia’s U.N. Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya. This sentiment reflects the ongoing conflict and the need for international pressure to push for a peaceful resolution.
**What’s Next?**
As President Zelensky emphasized, “We will continue to defend our country, our energy sector.” The Ukrainian military remains vigilant, and the international community continues to condemn Russia’s actions.
