Russian missiles and artillery launched a devastating attack on cities across Ukraine in the early hours of Thursday, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. At least five people were killed, with many more injured or trapped under the rubble of destroyed buildings. The missile strikes, which coincided with the International Day of Peace, were the largest in over a month and came just as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was visiting the United States to seek further support.

The attack also occurred amid a trade dispute between Ukraine and its ally, Poland, which announced it would halt weapon transfers to Ukraine. Poland emphasized that this decision would not impact NATO and US weapons transfers through the country. The missile strikes targeted various regions in Ukraine, including Kherson, where two people were killed and several others injured. Kyiv also experienced significant damage, with seven people wounded, including a 9-year-old girl. Russian missiles shattered windows, caused fires, and left buildings and cars in ruins.

The attacks have further strained the already tense relationship between Ukraine and Russia, with Ukrainian citizens expressing their anger towards Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Ukrainian Air Force reported intercepting a significant number of cruise missiles launched by Russia, preventing further damage and casualties. However, some strikes did cause damage to civilian infrastructure, impacting cities like Kharkiv, Cherkasy, Lviv, and Rivne. Rescue services are currently working to clear the debris and rescue those trapped under rubble. In response, Russia's Ministry of Defence claimed to have taken down 22 drones overnight.

As Ukraine faces a counteroffensive that is progressing slower than anticipated and with winter approaching, President Zelenskyy is urgently seeking financial and military support. His visit to the US was intended to secure an additional $24 billion aid package. However, the missile strikes have underscored the urgency of bolstering Ukraine's defenses and further escalating tensions in the region.