A Russian missile strike on Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, has resulted in at least one death and multiple injuries. According to Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, the attack caused damage to six diplomatic missions: those of Albania, Argentina, North Macedonia, Palestine, Portugal, and Montenegro.
Missile strikes were also reported in the southern city of Kherson, where one person was killed, and in several other towns and cities across Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities have condemned the attacks, calling them deliberate acts of aggression targeting civilian infrastructure and international diplomatic entities.
In response, Russia has stated that its forces conducted strikes on military targets in Ukraine using long-range, high-precision weapons. The Russian Ministry of Defense claims these actions were retaliation for Ukraine’s use of US-made ATACMS missiles and UK-manufactured Storm Shadow missiles in a recent attack on Russia’s Rostov region.
The escalation follows remarks by Russian President Vladimir Putin during an extended news conference. Putin hinted at a potential “missile duel” with the United States to demonstrate the capabilities of Russia’s new Oreshnik hypersonic ballistic missile, which he asserts can overcome any US missile defense system.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of securing support from Europe and the United States for a sustainable peace. He met with European Union leaders at their final summit before the inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump next month, highlighting the need for continued international backing amid ongoing tensions.
The situation underscores the intensifying conflict between Ukraine and Russia and its broader implications for global security and diplomacy.
