A resident walks next to buildings and cars heavily damaged by a Russian missile strike, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Odesa, Ukraine November 25, 2024. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy via Telegram/Handout via REUTERS
Russian Missiles and Drones Strike Ukrainian Cities
Russian missile strikes and drone attacks overnight caused significant damage to Ukrainian cities, targeting residential areas and energy infrastructure. Ukrainian officials reported damage in Kharkiv in the east, Odesa in the south, and power disruptions in the Mykolaiv region, with attacks also aimed at the capital, Kyiv.
Missiles Hit Kharkiv and Odesa
In Kharkiv, a missile strike injured at least 23 people and damaged over 40 buildings, according to the regional governor and national police. In Odesa, another missile attack damaged residential buildings and injured 10 people, as confirmed by the Ukrainian Interior Ministry.
Drone Attacks Cause Disruptions
Overnight, drones attacked multiple regions, causing temporary power outages in Mykolaiv and hitting industrial facilities in Zaporizhzhia. Kyiv endured hours of buzzing drones overhead, with sporadic gunfire heard as air defenses engaged the attackers. Ukraine’s Air Force reported that 71 out of 145 drones were intercepted, while the rest evaded tracking, likely due to electronic warfare tactics.
Zelensky Calls for Western Support
President Volodymyr Zelensky urged Western allies to intensify sanctions against Russia and block access to components used in its weapons. He also called for additional military aid, stating, “These Russian attacks on Ukrainian life can be stopped… with pressure, sanctions, and unwavering resolve.”
Impact on Ukraine’s Power Grid
The drone and missile strikes continue Russia’s campaign against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, which has been ongoing since February 2022. Despite no significant damage reported in Kyiv or surrounding areas, the attacks have reignited concerns over prolonged winter blackouts.
Civilian Casualties Continue to Rise
Moscow denies targeting civilians, but United Nations figures verify nearly 12,000 civilian deaths since the invasion began, with Ukrainian officials suggesting the actual toll is much higher. The relentless strikes highlight the ongoing humanitarian and infrastructure crisis faced by Ukraine.
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