Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that approximately 40 missiles targeted cities across Ukraine, resulting in multiple casualties, including fatalities in the capital city.
These strikes coincided with the eve of a pivotal three-day NATO summit in Washington.
Meanwhile, Russia reported thwarting an alleged attempt by Ukraine to persuade a Russian pilot to defect and surrender his strategic bomber.
Russia Foils Alleged Defection Attempt
The Russian FSB security service disclosed on Monday that it intercepted a plot involving NATO countries to induce a Russian pilot to land his TU-22M3 strategic bomber in Ukraine under the guise of defection. The pilot was reportedly offered financial incentives and an Italian passport to facilitate the plan.
Ukraine has yet to respond to these claims.
Last year, Russian pilot Maxim Kuzminov defected with his Mi-8 helicopter to Ukrainian-held territory but was later found deceased in Spain, sparking allegations of Russian involvement in extrajudicial actions beyond its borders.
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Missile Strikes Rock Ukrainian Capital
Explosions reverberated across Kyiv on Monday morning following reports of over 40 missile strikes, including the deployment of hypersonic Kinzhal missiles, targeting various Ukrainian cities.
Sergiy Popko, updating via Telegram, confirmed casualties, including fatalities, with ongoing updates on the situation.
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President Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, highlighting the targeting of civilian infrastructure, including a children’s hospital and residential areas.
“Russian terrorists once again massively attacked Ukraine with missiles. Different cities: Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvy Rig, Sloviansk, Kramatorsk. More than 40 missiles of various types. Residential buildings, infrastructure and a children’s hospital were damaged,” President Zelenskyy stated.
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Advanced Weaponry Deployed
Ukraine’s Air Force reported the deployment of Kinzhal missiles, renowned for their hypersonic speed, making them exceedingly challenging to intercept. These missiles represent some of Russia’s most advanced military capabilities.
Andrii Yermal, head of Ukraine’s presidential office, noted the presence of civilians in the streets during the attacks, underscoring the indiscriminate nature of the strikes.
