Ukraine War Live Updates: Russia Hammers Kyiv in Deadly Attacks

Key Points:

• Russia launched one of its deadliest missile and drone barrages on Kyiv, killing at least 18 people and damaging over 30 locations, as a direct response to recent Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory and occupied Crimea.
• Ukraine has intensified its long-range drone and missile campaign targeting Russian fuel facilities and military installations, causing fuel shortages and disrupting Moscow’s ability to shield its population from the war’s impact.
• Despite mounting civilian casualties and economic strain on Russia, President Vladimir Putin remains defiant, pledging to continue the conflict and increase air defenses, while Ukraine seeks to raise the costs of war to force a Russian withdrawal.
• Kyiv residents endured over 11 hours of air-raid warnings, taking shelter in subway stations amid widespread destruction, as Ukrainian forces continue to pressure Russian advances on the battlefield, particularly in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region.
• NATO and European allies continue to support Ukraine militarily and financially, with increased defense spending and aid packages, while debates persist over Europe’s reliance on the U.S. for security amid ongoing Russian aggression.