Russian offensive kills at least 23 in Ukraine

Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, reported at least 23 people dead and dozens injured following a massive Russian missile attack early Tuesday. The city of Dnipro suffered the heaviest casualties, with 16 fatalities, including two children, and 42 wounded, according to local authorities.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned of a potential large-scale assault, and in the aftermath, he renewed his urgent appeal to the United States for air defense systems. "If Ukraine is not protected against ballistic missiles and other projectiles, these attacks will begin," Zelenskyy stated on social media.

Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, confirmed seven deaths and approximately 50 injuries in the capital. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Air Force reported intercepting a significant number of missiles and drones, though many still penetrated air defenses. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of having "no more cards than terror" and suggested Moscow is losing on the battlefield.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attack, with his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric emphasizing that attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure are prohibited by international humanitarian law. Negotiations to end the conflict remain stalled after more than four years of war.

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If Ukraine is not protected against ballistic missiles and other projectiles, these attacks will begin.