**Russia’s Ongoing Assault on Ukraine: Death Toll Rises as Attacks Intensify**
In a devastating turn of events, Russian attacks across Ukraine have resulted in the deaths of at least 23 people and injured over 300 others within a span of just 24 hours. The reports come from local officials, who are struggling to keep pace with the escalating violence.
**Drone Strikes Wreak Havoc Across the Country**
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russian forces launched an astonishing 71 Shahed-type attack drones and decoys from multiple directions, including Bryansk, Millerovo, Kursk, and occupied Crimea. Ukraine’s air defenses successfully destroyed 52 of these deadly projectiles, but unfortunately, many civilians were caught in the crossfire.
**Deadly Ballistic Missile Attack on Dnipro**
In one of the deadliest single attacks in recent weeks, a ballistic missile strike on Dnipropetrovsk Oblast killed at least 20 people. The attack also injured nearly 300 individuals and caused extensive damage to high-rise buildings, houses, dormitories, cars, schools, hospitals, administrative offices, and even a passenger train.
**Regional Breakdown of Attacks**
In Kharkiv Oblast, nine people were injured in strikes on Kharkiv city, Kupiansk, and surrounding villages. In Zaporizhzhia Oblast, five people were injured in attacks across the Zaporizhzhia, Vasylivka, and Polohy districts. Meanwhile, three civilians lost their lives in Donetsk Oblast, with 11 more wounded.
**Global Reaction and Support**
As Russia’s aggression continues to escalate, global leaders are speaking out against these atrocities. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s ongoing support for Ukraine at a NATO summit in The Hague. Lithuania has also signed a memorandum with American defense firm Northrop Grumman and Norwegian Nammo to secure the production of ammunition amid Russia’s war against Ukraine.
**Ukraine Reduces Mined Territory, But Challenges Remain**
Despite efforts to clear mined territory, around 137,000 square kilometers (52,900 square miles) remain hazardous. The Ukrainian government has reduced this area by over 20% since late 2022.
**International Partnerships Crucial in Countering Russian Drone Attacks**
President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the significance of international partnerships in countering Russia’s drone attacks, citing Ukraine’s reliance on assistance from its allies to intercept these deadly projectiles. This emphasis on cooperation is crucial as Ukraine continues to face an increasingly formidable enemy.
**Calls for Accountability and Support**
As global leaders gather at NATO summit, they are urged to scale up investments in joint weapons production, including drone technologies, artillery, and interceptors. The international community must hold Russia accountable for its actions and provide unwavering support to the people of Ukraine as they face this prolonged conflict.
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