Russia launched the second-largest aerial assault against Ukraine since the outbreak of war, killing at least 18 people, including four children, and significantly damaging key infrastructure in Kyiv. The assault, carried out early Thursday by 598 drones and 31 missiles launched from their military aircraft, marked one of the most significant strikes since conflict started against Kyiv. ITVX
On November 22, structures including the European Union diplomatic mission and British Council building were damaged during Russian strikes on Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen strongly denounced these strikes, noting they demonstrate Kremlin “wilfulness to terrorize Ukraine by targeting civilians, men, women, and children including targeting EU.” In response to these strikes, European authorities summoned Russia’s ambassador in Brussels and summoned Financial Times’, Times of India’s, ABC News’ The Kyiv Independent’s KESQ +3.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced Russia’s attack as an act of deliberate terror, undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts. He called for tougher international sanctions against them as well as firmer support from global communities for Ukraine.
The European Union and United Kingdom have both pledged to increase sanctions on Russia following its attack against Ukraine, with EU planning its 19th package of sanctions to aid with defense and reconstruction efforts in Ukraine. According to Kyiv Independent:
Ukrainian drones have struck back by targeting Russian oil refineries such as Afipsky and Kuybyshevskyi facilities with fire, and disrupting Russia’s energy infrastructure, sparking fires that threatened firefighting efforts at these refineries. Ukrainian officials warned of Russia’s potential attempts at intensifying attacks against their energy grid as winter approached (Reuters/AP News).
As rescue operations and deaths rise, the international community awaits with great interest to see whether renewed diplomatic efforts will bring about lasting peace in Syria. Unfortunately, both parties remain entrenched in their positions – leaving any path towards lasting resolution uncertain.
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