**Russia’s Ongoing Assault on Ukraine Leaves Devastating Toll**
In a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, at least 14 people were killed and 54 injured in Russian attacks across the country over the past day. The brutal assault has left a trail of destruction and sorrow, with civilians caught in the crossfire.
**Ukrainian Air Defenses Thwart Many Attacks**
Despite the scale of the attack, Ukrainian air defenses proved to be a significant obstacle for Russian forces. According to reports, 81 drones and two ballistic missiles were shot down by Ukrainian air defenses. However, it’s estimated that up to 70 drones vanished from radar screens, likely used as decoys to overwhelm defenses.
**Regional Breakdown of Attacks**
The attacks were not limited to one region alone. In Kyiv, a woman and her son were killed, with eight people injured, including four children. The State Emergency Service reported this disturbing incident. Other regions also suffered losses:
* **Sumy Oblast**: Four people, including a child, were killed, while 14 civilians, five of whom were children, were wounded.
* **Donetsk Oblast**: Four people were killed and 10 injured over the past day.
* **Kherson Oblast**: Two people were killed, and six wounded in residential areas, with a high-rise building and nine houses damaged.
* **Kharkiv Oblast**: Two people were killed, and at least four injured, including a 16-year-old child.
* **Dnipropetrovsk Oblast**: Eight people were injured, two of whom are in serious condition.
* **Zaporizhzhia Oblast**: Four people were injured during at least 13 attacks.
**President Zelensky’s Response**
In the face of these devastating losses, President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for increased pressure on Russia and stronger sanctions to pave the way for diplomacy. He emphasized the need to hold Russia accountable for its actions and thanked those who have helped Ukraine with air defense.
**A Long Road Ahead**
The escalation of attacks comes as Moscow continues to reject a complete ceasefire, intensifying strikes on civilian areas. The road ahead seems uncertain, but one thing is clear: Ukraine will not back down in the face of aggression.
As the conflict rages on, it’s essential to keep a close eye on developments and support those affected by this ongoing crisis.