Russia Fires Barrage of North Korean Missiles at Kyiv After US Visit

In the early hours of Thursday, Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, faced heavy missile attacks, marking the first such assault in six weeks. The strikes occurred shortly after a visit to the city by US national security adviser Jake Sullivan, indicating a brazen display of aggression amidst diplomatic efforts. Despite the onslaught, more than 25,000 people sought shelter in the city’s metro stations, reminiscent of scenes from the early days of the war, as images circulated on social media.

Reports indicated that Russia launched two ballistic missiles and 29 cruise missiles at the Kyiv region, all of which were intercepted by Ukraine. However, the attack left about a dozen people injured from falling debris, with significant damage to property. Valentyna Ivanivna, an 80-year-old resident, described the harrowing experience of waking up to the sound of explosions that shattered her windows, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the assault.

Anastasia Shulha, another affected resident, shared the impact on her flower shop, which suffered damage for the second time due to the attack. The resilience of the Ukrainian people was evident as they grappled with the aftermath, with officials confirming no hits to critical infrastructure despite close calls. However, the psychological toll and sense of vulnerability lingered as residents assessed the damage to their homes and businesses.

Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky seized the moment to underscore the urgent need for enhanced military support from allies, emphasizing the importance of advanced defense systems to deter future attacks. The targeting of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence facilities in the missile strikes further underscored the strategic implications of the conflict and the stakes involved for both sides.

In a significant development, volunteer fighters from Ukraine’s Freedom for Russia Legion and Russian Volunteer Corps claimed responsibility for retaliatory actions, including a drone strike on Russia’s Belgorod region. These actions demonstrated a shift in the dynamics of the conflict, with Ukrainian forces extending their operations into enemy territory, challenging Russia’s offensive capabilities.

The use of North Korean-made missiles in the conflict raised concerns about the proliferation of advanced weaponry and its potential implications for regional security. US and South Korean officials accused North Korea of supplying Russia with military equipment, signaling a concerning escalation in the conflict dynamics.

Amidst the escalating violence, Sullivan reaffirmed US commitment to providing military aid to Ukraine, despite challenges in securing congressional approval. The visit of a NATO military delegation to Kyiv underscored the alliance’s solidarity with Ukraine and its determination to counter Russian aggression. Adm. Rob Bauer emphasized the transformative impact of Ukraine’s resistance and called for continued international support to uphold democratic values.

Zelensky welcomed Bauer’s visit as a symbol of solidarity, highlighting the resilience of Ukrainian society in the face of adversity. As the conflict continues to unfold, the international community’s support remains crucial in bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities and preserving its sovereignty.