At Least 22 Dead as Russia Launches Aerial Assault on Ukraine

KYIV, Ukraine — At least 22 people died overnight following a renewed wave of heavy aerial attacks from Russia, worsening the conflict as the United States has suspended sharing satellite images with Ukraine. The U.S. decision has significantly hindered Ukraine’s military capabilities.

Officials reported multiple strikes on Ukrainian cities, particularly targeting the eastern Donetsk region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the assault as a calculated move by Moscow to intensify pressure amidst ongoing peace discussions led by the U.S.

“This is what happens when someone appeases barbarians,” Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk wrote on X, criticizing the brutal attacks, which he described as resulting in “more bombs, more aggression, more victims.”

In the town of Dobropillya, at least 11 people were killed and around 30 were injured during strikes that damaged multiple buildings. The regional Governor, Vadym Filashkin, declared a day of mourning, cautioning that rescue operations may uncover more victims amid the rubble.

Reports indicate that Russian forces launched ballistic missiles, striking infrastructure and civilian locations. Zelenskyy noted that the Russian military’s follow-up attacks targeted emergency responders arriving to assist after the initial strikes. “It is a vile and inhumane intimidation tactic to which the Russians often resort,” he said.

The attacks were compounded by the recent cessation of U.S. intelligence sharing, which previously aided Ukraine in tracking Russian troop movements. The inability to access satellite imagery puts additional pressure on Ukraine’s military tactics. “We are effectively fighting blind,” stated a Ukrainian army officer.

As the situation escalates, Zelenskyy announced that he and his team would travel to Saudi Arabia soon to explore proposals aimed at establishing lasting peace. He welcomed U.S. President Donald Trump’s suggestion of imposing new sanctions against Russia.

“Everything that helps Putin finance the war must be broken,” Zelenskyy affirmed in a social media post.

In related developments, Ukrainian air forces reported that Russia launched a significant number of drones and several missiles as part of the intense attack that extended into the early hours of the morning. Ukrainian military efforts intercepted one missile and 79 drones; however, not all incursions were successful in defending against the onslaught.

Simultaneously, Russian officials claimed to have shot down 31 Ukrainian drones in various regions, asserting their air defenses remained robust against Ukrainian retaliation efforts.

This unfolding tragedy follows recent high-profile diplomatic engagements where Ukraine sought to mend relations with the U.S. amid concerns of shifting support dynamics as the conflict endures.

The European Union has voiced serious concerns about Russia’s intentions, stating that continued military support for Ukraine is essential against the Kremlin’s relentless aggression.