Additional Coverage:
Russia’s Aerial Assault on Ukraine Intensifies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russia launched a barrage of attacks last week, including 500 bombs, 660 drones, and 120 missiles. The attacks targeted Ukraine’s energy grid and coincided with freezing temperatures.
Ukraine’s air force reported shooting down 32 Russian drones overnight and losing 45 to electronic countermeasures. A Russian drone strike on a taxi in Kherson injured at least seven civilians.
Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, saying they occur “almost every day.” He expressed gratitude for international support in defending Ukraine against “inhuman pressure.”
Russia Claims Drone Success
Russia’s Defense Ministry claims its forces downed 29 Ukrainian drones over western regions.
EU Leaders Express Support for Ukraine
European Union leaders Antonio Costa and Kaja Kallas visited Kyiv to reaffirm the bloc’s support for Ukraine. Kallas stated, “the European Union wants Ukraine to win this war.”
US Financial Aid for Ukraine
President Joe Biden has authorized additional financial aid for Ukraine, including $5.5 billion in presidential drawdown funds and $275 million in military assistance. Biden condemned Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure as “outrageous.”