Three Russian missiles hit downtown Chernihiv, killing at least 14 people and injuring 61. The city, located near the border with Russia and Belarus, has a population of around 250,000. The ongoing war in Ukraine has entered its third year, with Ukraine facing challenges due to a lack of military support from Western partners. While Russia had not made significant advances over the winter months, Ukraine’s shortage of resources has allowed the Russian forces to gradually progress.
The delay in the approval of an aid package by Washington, which includes $60 billion for Ukraine, has put pressure on Ukraine’s ability to defend itself. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has requested more air defense equipment, particularly surface-to-air Patriot guided missile systems, to prevent further attacks like the one in Chernihiv. The Institute for the Study of War warned that Ukraine cannot sustain its current defense without rapid US assistance, specifically in air defense and artillery.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba reiterated the need for more Patriot batteries to protect cities and economic centers from destruction. Ukrainian forces are preparing for a potential major offensive by Russia, building fortifications and engaging in long-range drone and missile strikes behind Russian lines to disrupt Moscow’s war efforts. Despite this, Russian forces shot down Ukrainian drones in various regions, escalating tensions between the two sides.
There were reports of a Ukrainian missile striking an airfield in occupied Crimea, although this was not confirmed by officials. Russia’s civil aviation authority halted flights at airports in Nizhny Novgorod and Kazan due to safety concerns. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has raised concerns about escalation and the toll it continues to take on the civilian population as both sides engage in military actions.
As Ukraine faces increased pressure from Russia and seeks more support from Western allies, the humanitarian situation in the country remains dire. The conflict has stretched into its third year, with no clear end in sight as both sides continue to engage in violent confrontations. The international community is urged to provide assistance to Ukraine in order to prevent further loss of life and destruction caused by the ongoing war.
