Title: Russia Launches Largest Attack on Ukraine in Over a Month, Killing Five
Subtitle: President Zelenskyy calls Russia a “terrorist state” as casualties rise amid escalating tensions
Date: September 21, 2022
In a major escalation of the conflict, Russia unleashed a series of missile and artillery strikes on cities across Ukraine early Thursday morning. The devastating attack, the largest in over a month, resulted in the deaths of at least five people and left dozens injured.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the missile strikes, reportedly targeting military and civilian infrastructure, caused widespread destruction and started fires in several cities. Rescue operations are currently underway in search of survivors trapped under the rubble of collapsed buildings.
These airstrikes came just one day after reports of sabotage at a Russian military airfield in Chkalovsk near Moscow. The timing of the attacks suggests a deliberate act of retaliation.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who addressed the United Nations General Assembly, labeled Russia as a “terrorist state” in his speech. The latest brutal assault serves to reinforce his claims.
The attack occurred on a day when President Zelenskyy was in Washington, D.C. seeking support from the international community. However, the Ukrainian leader was dealt a blow as Poland, a neighboring country that has been a strong ally, announced it would no longer send weapons to Ukraine. Poland cited concerns about Russian aggression and the need to focus on modernizing its own military as reasons for the decision.
The Russian assault resulted in the deaths of five people in the southern Kherson province, while injuries were reported in multiple cities including Kyiv and Cherkasy. It is worth noting that Kherson is close to the front line, raising concerns of an intensification of hostilities.
Russia’s Ministry of Defense claimed they had targeted military objects with precision-guided missiles and drones. However, Ukrainian officials reported that several strikes in the city of Kharkiv had impacted civilian infrastructure.
Residents affected by the attack expressed their anger and frustration towards Russian President Vladimir Putin. Marharyta Moldokova, a 76-year-old Kyiv resident, criticized Putin, stating, “God, we can’t wait for someone to shoot him. Everything is not enough for him… What does he need?”
As the conflict rages on, Ukraine achieved a victory on the economic front. A new shipping corridor in the Black Sea saw its first success as a cargo ship arrived in Turkey with 3,000 tons of wheat. Since Russia withdrew from the Black Sea grain deal in July, Ukraine has been seeking efficient and safe export routes.
In response to the attacks, Belgium signaled its intention to possibly send F-16 warplanes to Ukraine for fighting or training. Other countries, including the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway, have already committed to providing jets to Ukraine. However, President Biden faces resistance from right-wing Republicans in Congress in securing the $24 billion military and humanitarian aid requested by Zelenskyy.
While Zelenskyy’s visit to Washington was met with more skepticism this time around, he expressed gratitude for the support he has received. With tensions escalating and casualties mounting, the Ukrainian leader emphasized the need for international assistance in curbing Russian aggression.
As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, countries around the world are closely monitoring the situation and weighing their responses. The hope for a peaceful resolution remains elusive, and the fate of Ukraine hangs in the balance.