Vladimir Putin has launched a devastating attack with hypersonic missiles, marking his most destructive act since the recent summit in Alaska with Donald Trump.
Following the missile barrage from Russia, NATO had to respond by deploying fighter aircraft in Poland. The strikes involved a variety of weapons, including Shahed kamikaze drones, Kh-101 and Kalibr cruise missiles, and Iskander-M ballistic missiles targeted at Ukraine. These actions cast doubt on Putin’s willingness to engage in peace talks, despite ongoing efforts by the White House to facilitate direct discussions between Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky.
The assault, one of the most intense in the ongoing conflict, involved Tu-95MS and Tu-160 nuclear-capable bombers and MiG fighters, causing widespread impact in Ukraine. The estimated cost of these strikes is approximately £320 million from the Russian state budget.
In response to the escalating situation, NATO jets were scrambled by the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces. This move came shortly after a Russian drone incident in eastern Poland. The statement released emphasized the need for heightened readiness due to Russian air strikes, including the use of hypersonic missiles, prompting the activation of all available resources for defense.
Tragically, casualties were reported in various Ukrainian regions, with significant damage to infrastructure and civilian areas. Cities like Lviv and Mukachevo faced destruction, with factories and residential areas hit by missiles. The attacks extended to other regions, including Rivne, Dubno, Ivano-Frankivsk, Vinnytsia, and Kyiv, where residents sought safety in underground shelters.
Furthermore, retaliatory strikes by Ukraine targeted key Russian assets, causing disruptions and reducing production capacity in Russia. The conflict escalated as both sides engaged in strategic strikes, leading to further tensions and uncertainties in the region.
The situation also impacted regions beyond Ukraine, with reports of attacks on military installations and infrastructure in Crimea and Voronezh. The ongoing conflict showcased the escalating hostilities and the challenges faced by both sides in finding a peaceful resolution.
The series of events underscored the volatile nature of the situation, with implications for regional stability and international relations. As the conflict continues to unfold, concerns persist over the humanitarian impact and the broader ramifications of the escalating violence.