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| "A plaque resembling a postage stamp with a composite image depicting the Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, placing a V sign next to Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is handcuffed, appeared in front of the judge at The Hague Court, as seen through the shattered bulletproof glass of a damaged military vehicle in central Kyiv on May 11, 2023. On the 442nd day of the Russia-Ukraine war, the United States accused South Africa of supplying weapons to Russia." (AFP/SERGEI SUPINSKY) |
Introduction:
Russia has intensified its aerial assaults on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, launching a total of 16 airstrikes within just a month in May. The most recent attack occurred on Monday, May 29, 2023. As the skies filled with smoke and clouds of explosions, panicked residents hurriedly sought shelter.
Escalating Attacks and Ukrainian Authorities' Response
Kyiv authorities claim that all Russian missiles were successfully shot down, although one individual in the Podil district was injured and required hospitalization due to the Russian airstrike. Vitali Klitschko, the Mayor of Kyiv, alerted residents through Telegram, urging them not to leave their places of refuge. Emergency services were dispatched to the central district of the capital, where explosions were reported. The Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, reported that Ukraine managed to shoot down 11 cruise and ballistic missiles in the second attack on Kyiv on Monday.
Impact of Recent Aerial Assaults
During the large-scale airstrike targeting Kyiv on Sunday night, May 28, 2023, five Ukrainian aircraft were rendered inoperable in the western part of the country. Additionally, a fire broke out at the port of Odesa in the Black Sea. These attacks have significantly disrupted normal operations and caused widespread damage.
Targets and Tactics of Russian Airstrikes
Yuriy Ihnat, the spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force, stated that Russia's primary targets typically include Western weapon stockpiles, energy facilities, and government buildings. However, with the missiles being shot down over Kyiv, it has become difficult to determine their intended targets on Monday. Russia has escalated its frequency of airstrikes as Ukraine prepares for retaliatory measures.
Civilian Response and Metro Chaos
The Kyiv metro station was reported to be crowded with people seeking shelter, although many residents initially disregarded the air raid alarms until they heard loud explosions in the city center. Local television footage showed missile debris, which appeared to have struck traffic lights, at a busy intersection.
Conclusion:
As Russia continues its aerial assaults on Kyiv, Ukrainian authorities are on high alert, ensuring the safety and protection of their citizens. The situation remains tense as Ukraine prepares to respond and defend itself against further attacks. The international community closely monitors the ongoing developments and seeks a peaceful resolution to the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine.