Russia Launches “Massive” Air Attack on Ukraine, Poland Reports Missile Breach

Kyiv: In a significant escalation of hostilities, Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, and the western region of Lviv came under intense Russian air bombardment early Sunday. The attack, described as “massive” by officials, coincided with Poland reporting a breach of its airspace by a Russian missile.

The offensive follows a series of deadly aerial engagements between Russia and Ukraine. Just a day earlier, the Russian military announced the capture of the Ukrainian village of Ivanivske, adding to tensions in the region.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko urged residents to seek shelter as explosions rocked the capital, with air defence systems activated. The governor of Lviv region, Maksym Kozytskyi, confirmed attacks in the Stryi district, causing minor damage but no casualties were reported.

Ukraine’s air force reported intercepting numerous Russian cruise missiles and drones, downing a significant portion of them. The attacks also caused temporary localized power outages in some areas, including the eastern Dnipropetrovsk region.

Poland’s army alleged the breach of its airspace by a Russian cruise missile, emphasizing heightened readiness due to increased Russian military activity. Poland has remained a steadfast ally of Ukraine since Russia’s invasion in 2022.

In response to Moscow’s aggression, Ukraine has vowed to retaliate, targeting Russian territory. The conflict has seen territorial gains by Russian forces, with recent captures near Bakhmut and Adviivka.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has linked Kyiv to a recent militant attack on a Moscow concert hall, despite claims of responsibility by the Islamic State. However, Kyiv has denied involvement, accusing Russia of fabricating excuses to escalate the conflict.