Russia’s Missile Strikes on Ukraine: What You Need to Know

On December 29, 2023, Ukraine experienced one of its most severe missile and drone attacks since the onset of the Russian invasion in February 2022. This escalation of conflict, involving extensive air assaults, raises critical concerns about the ongoing war’s trajectory and its broader implications.

Overview of the Attack

The missile strikes launched by Russia were reported to be among the most significant since the war began. Approximately 110 missiles, along with drones, targeted various parts of Ukraine, including residential areas and critical infrastructure. Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk characterized the strikes as Russia’s largest aerial barrage since the initial invasion.

Casualties and Damage

The attacks resulted in the tragic loss of at least 12 civilians and injuries to many others. Significant damage was inflicted on residential buildings, with reports of people trapped under rubble in Kyiv. Infrastructure across several regions, such as Odesa, Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and central Kyiv, experienced power outages. In Dnipropetrovsk, missiles hit a shopping center, a private home, and a residential building, causing fatalities and injuries.

International Response

The global community, particularly Western nations, has been closely observing the situation. The US and its European allies have condemned the attacks and reiterated their support for Ukraine. There is growing concern about the future of Western military and financial assistance to Ukraine as the conflict nears its two-year mark.