Russia intensified its aerial assault on Ukraine on Wednesday, launching a new wave of missiles and drones targeting Kyiv and Lviv, close to the NATO-member Poland border. This escalation follows the deadliest single strike of the war this year, which hit a military institute in Poltava on Tuesday, killing at least 50 and injuring over 270.
**Widespread Attacks**
Air raid sirens sounded nationwide early Wednesday as Ukraine was placed on high alert. Explosions were reported near Kyiv and Lviv, with Ukrainian air defense systems actively engaged. Lviv’s regional governor Maksym Kozytskyi confirmed residential damage, noting the significant noise from the attack.
Poland, which shares a border with Ukraine, activated its aircraft for the third time in a week due to increased Russian military activity. The Polish Air Force Command highlighted the busy night for air defense in response to Russia’s long-range aviation strikes.
**Poltava Attack: War’s Deadliest Strike of 2024**
On Tuesday, Russia’s ballistic missiles targeted a military institute in Poltava, southeast of Kyiv, marking the deadliest single attack of the conflict this year. The missiles struck during class hours, resulting in numerous casualties and severe damage. Graphic images showed young men among debris, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the attack as a “stunning tragedy” and vowed accountability.
An internal review is underway to assess the protection measures for the institute’s personnel. The use of ballistic missiles, which provided little time for defense, intensified the tragedy.
**Intensifying Missile and Drone Strikes**
Russia has escalated its missile and drone attacks over the past month, with heavy bombardments targeting Kyiv and other regions. In response, Ukraine launched over 150 drones last weekend, damaging an oil refinery and a power station in Russia. Despite these retaliatory strikes, Russia’s aerial campaign continues unabated.
Zelenskiy has renewed calls for Western allies to provide more air defense systems and long-range weapons, stressing the urgent need for protection.
**Government Shake-Up Amidst War**
In light of the escalating conflict, Ukraine’s government is undergoing a major reshuffle. Strategic Industries Minister Oleksandr Kamyshin resigned on Tuesday, alongside four other ministers, leaving a third of the cabinet vacant. President Zelenskiy indicated a significant overhaul is necessary for strong leadership during this critical phase.
Zelenskiy plans to visit the United States later this month to present a “victory plan” to President Joe Biden. The reshuffle and planned visit reflect Ukraine’s strategic adjustments amidst ongoing conflict.
**Ongoing Conflict**
As both sides intensify military operations, Ukrainian forces are conducting a risky cross-border incursion into Russia’s Kursk region, while Russian troops make incremental gains in eastern Ukraine. With increasing missile and drone strikes, the war shows no signs of abating, leaving civilians and military personnel bracing for continued violence.
