- 11 people, including five children, killed in Russian missile strikes on Dobropillia.
- 30 others wounded, including five children, in the attack.
- Extensive damage to buildings, vehicles, and firefighting equipment.
- Zelensky calls for stronger air defences and tougher sanctions on Russia.
- Ukraine’s military reported successful interception of multiple drones and missiles.
At least 11 people died and 30 others were injured, including five children, in a brutal overnight missile and drone attack on Dobropillia, a city in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region. The Ukrainian Interior Ministry confirmed the attack, which involved ballistic missiles, rockets, and drones.
As a result, the assault caused severe damage. Eight multi-storey buildings and 30 vehicles suffered heavy hits. Authorities then released shocking images of burning buildings, with rescue teams working tirelessly through debris to find survivors. Additionally, a fire truck trying to control the flames got hit by another missile, further complicating rescue efforts.
Attack Highlights Ongoing Russian Aggression
The deadly assault on Dobropillia follows a recent escalation in Russian missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian territory. In addition to the deaths in Dobropillia, three civilians were reported killed in a separate drone attack on the Kharkiv region, located in northeastern Ukraine. The continuous barrage of attacks underscores Russia’s persistent targeting of civilian infrastructure.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, calling them part of Russia’s unrelenting strategy. “Such strikes show that Russia’s objectives have not changed. We must continue to do everything possible to protect lives, strengthen our air defences, and intensify sanctions against Russia,” Zelensky posted on Facebook.
The president’s remarks came as Ukraine grapples with a shortage of advanced missile systems, which has complicated efforts to intercept Russia’s aerial assaults. Analysts warn that a decrease in US intelligence sharing with Ukraine may further undermine the country’s ability to defend itself effectively.
Russia’s Ongoing Attacks on Ukraine’s Infrastructure
On Friday, Russia launched missile strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy and gas facilities. This marked the first major attack since the US paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Consequently, this development raised serious concerns about Ukraine’s ability to detect and respond to missile and drone threats in a timely manner.
As the missile attacks continued, they crippled Ukraine’s critical infrastructure. Many cities lost power, which further hampered the country’s war efforts. In response, Ukrainian forces remained on high alert, focusing on strengthening air defences and doing everything they could to prevent further damage.
In retaliation, Ukraine’s air forces intercepted 79 drones and one Iskander-K cruise missile. Furthermore, Ukrainian military officials reported that 54 drones failed to hit their targets. This was likely thanks to Ukraine’s effective electronic countermeasures, though the attacks still caused significant damage.
Dobropillia, a city that once housed 28,000 people, now sits just 22 kilometres from the front lines. Recently, Russian forces have repeatedly targeted the area with artillery and missile strikes. As a result, they are working to encircle and capture crucial locations in eastern Ukraine, including Dobropillia.
International Reactions and Calls for Increased Support
The ongoing assault on Dobropillia and other Ukrainian cities has sparked widespread condemnation from the international community. Several nations, including the United States and European Union members, have called for increased sanctions on Russia and more robust support for Ukraine.
Ukrainian officials are urging their international allies to ramp up both military and humanitarian aid. President Zelensky has emphasized the need for enhanced air defence systems to protect civilians and critical infrastructure from future attacks. The military’s success in intercepting missiles and drones demonstrates the effectiveness of these systems, yet the country remains vulnerable to new assaults without sufficient external support.
A Growing Crisis in Ukraine
The latest round of Russian missile and drone attacks on Dobropillia and other regions of Ukraine marks a tragic escalation in the ongoing war. The toll on civilians continues to rise, with families grieving the loss of loved ones, including young children. As Russia intensifies its military campaign, Ukraine’s air defences and infrastructure remain under constant threat.
The international community’s response to these attacks will be critical in shaping the future of the conflict. As Ukraine braces for further aggression, the need for enhanced defensive capabilities and diplomatic pressure on Russia is more urgent than ever.