Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky once again called on his Western allies this Saturday to provide Kiev with more anti-aircraft defense systems to “save lives”, after a series of Russian bombings that left at least eleven dead. Nighttime bombings hit the Black Sea port city of Odessa, killing eight people, including a child and a baby, according to Ukrainian regional authorities.
In other regions such as Jersón, Kharkiv and Zaporiyia, closer to the front line, three additional deaths were reported following Russian attacks, Ukrainian officials said. Zelensky said on social media that “Russia continues to attack civilians” and reiterated the urgent need to receive more air defense systems from Ukraine’s allies. The president stressed the need to strengthen Ukraine’s air shield to protect the population from “Russian terrorism” and avoid further human losses.
With more than two years since the Russian invasion began in February 2022, Ukraine faces a situation of exhaustion, with its armed forces struggling with limited resources. The Kiev government is awaiting approval of a new US aid package worth $60 billion, currently blocked in Congress due to opposition from Republicans.
In Odessa, a nine-story building was completely destroyed in a Russian attack, according to Interior Minister Igor Klimenko. Around ten people are estimated to be missing and around 100 rescuers have been deployed to continue search operations overnight. Broadcast images of the bombing show the building partially in ruins, with the facade destroyed and the apartments exposed.
In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its offensive, advancing on the eastern front after capturing the town of Avdiivka in February. Russian troops have claimed control of several nearby villages. Zelensky called on his Western allies, stressing that victory against Russia “depends on them.”
