**Russia’s Aggression Continues: Kyiv Hit by Large-Scale Missile and Drone Attack**
A devastating overnight attack on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, has left over a dozen civilians injured and multiple residential buildings damaged. The assault, which involved missiles and drones, came just hours after the start of the largest prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia.
The attack highlights the ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, with Western officials calling for tougher sanctions on Moscow. Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna took to social media to express his outrage, stating that “Russia’s continued aggression has a simple explanation: it hasn’t faced enough pressure to stop.” He urged increased military aid, tougher sanctions, and actions targeting Russia’s shadow oil fleet and frozen assets.
**The Attack on Kyiv**
President Volodymyr Zelensky described the attack as a night of “many fires and explosions” in the city. Residential buildings, cars, and businesses were damaged, with civilians sustaining injuries. Ukraine’s Air Force reported intercepting six ballistic missiles targeting the capital and shooting down 128 out of 250 Shahed-type drones launched nationwide.
**International Reaction**
The international community has condemned Russia’s actions, with EU Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Mathernova calling the assault “another horrific missile and drone attack.” She noted that areas where her colleagues live had been struck, emphasizing that “if anyone still doubts Russia wants war to continue — read the news.”
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the attack as a response to international peace efforts. He referenced last week’s meeting in Istanbul, where progress was stalled due to Moscow’s demands for Ukraine to withdraw from four Ukrainian regions it claims to have annexed.
**Peace Talks Stall**
The attack on Kyiv comes just a week after Ukrainian and Russian delegations met in Istanbul for peace talks that ended without a ceasefire agreement. During the May 16 meeting, Moscow demanded Kyiv withdraw from the four Ukrainian regions, despite lacking full control over them.
Ukrainian officials said the Russian delegation appeared to lack real authority and was unprepared to negotiate substantive terms. One outcome of the talks was a large-scale prisoner exchange, with 1,000 prisoners returning on each side beginning May 23. Ukraine had also proposed an immediate ceasefire and a potential face-to-face meeting between Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin — an offer Moscow declined.
**The Way Forward**
As tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to escalate, Western officials are calling for tougher sanctions on Moscow. The international community must come together to put pressure on Russia to cease its aggression and work towards a peaceful resolution. The attack on Kyiv serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict and the need for continued support from the global community.
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