**Ukraine’s Capital Under Siege: Zelensky Demands More Air Defense**
A devastating drone and missile attack on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, has left at least 23 people injured and dozens of fires burning across the city. President Volodymyr Zelensky has called for more air defense to protect his country from such attacks.
The overnight assault, which began as US President Donald Trump was speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin on July 3, saw Russian forces launch over 550 aerial weapons, including ballistic missiles and Iranian-type Shahed drones. Ukraine’s military shot down 270 of these threats, while electronic warfare jammed another 208 drones. Interceptor drones also destroyed dozens more.
Zelensky stressed the need for continued and increased military aid from allies, especially air defenses. “Patriots and their missiles are real defenders of life,” he said. “It is critically important that partners support against ballistic threats are sustained.”
Despite Ukraine’s desperate need for air defense munitions, the US has decided to halt shipments of Patriot missiles and other promised weapons to Kyiv. This decision comes as Russia continues to escalate its attacks on Ukraine.
**The Attack**
Beyond Kyiv, strikes also hit the Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, Kharkiv, Chernihiv, and Kyiv oblasts. Fires and damage were reported in nearly every district of the capital, including residential buildings, schools, medical facilities, and railway infrastructure. Local authorities described the night as “terroristic.”
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported fires in at least five districts. Air quality in the city remained dangerously poor by morning.
**Zelensky’s Call to Action**
Zelensky called on Ukraine’s allies, particularly the United States, to apply massive and immediate pressure on Russia. “We need to ensure that for every such attack on people and lives, they (Russia) feel the corresponding sanctions and other blows to their economy, their earnings, their infrastructure,” he said. “Only this can bring faster change.”
As Ukraine struggles to defend itself against Russian aggression, it is clear that more needs to be done to support its military efforts.
**A Desperate Situation**
The attack on Kyiv has left the city reeling. Fires continue to burn, and residents are living in fear of further attacks. The need for air defense munitions is urgent, and Ukraine’s allies must step up their support.
The situation in Ukraine is dire, and it is imperative that the international community takes action to support its people. As Zelensky said, “Patriots and their missiles are real defenders of life.” It is time for the world to stand with Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
