Zelensky urges more missile defense after deadly Russian attack on Kyiv

As Russia's invasion of Ukraine enters its fifth year, Ukrainian forces continue to hold the line against occupying troops. Moscow, meanwhile, is trying to seize as much territory as possible and secure more favorable peace terms, while allies are rushing to find a way to end the war.

Ukrainian authorities said Wednesday that Russian missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and the surrounding area overnight killed at least 17 people and wounded more than 40. Ukraine's air defense failed to shoot down any of the Russian-launched missiles, underscoring the difficulty of defending the capital.

Following the strikes, President Volodymyr Zelensky called on allies to provide more anti-ballistic missile defense systems. He said ballistic missile interceptors could have saved the lives of those killed overnight, emphasizing that delays or refusals to deliver such equipment lead to horrific casualties and destruction.

Kyiv has repeatedly requested US-made Patriot air defense systems and their interceptor missiles. In recent months, Russia has significantly intensified attacks on the Ukrainian capital, often using ballistic missiles that are particularly difficult to intercept. The missiles have been shaking buildings and generating powerful blast waves across the city.

The latest wave of strikes has renewed attention to Ukraine's urgent need for advanced air defense capabilities.