Escalation of Russian Attacks on Ukraine
Russian forces have intensified their attacks on Ukraine, launching a series of missile strikes that have caused significant casualties and damage. On the night of July 8, the Kiev Air Force reported that Russian forces attacked Ukraine with four Kh-101 cruise missiles and two Iskander-M ballistic missiles. Ukrainian air defense managed to intercept three of the Kh-101 missiles in the Zhytomyr and Cherkasy regions.
Casualties and Damage in Ukrainian Cities
The attacks have led to tragic outcomes in various parts of Ukraine. In the Dnipropetrovsk region, a ten-year-old boy and three women were injured in the city of Nikopol. In the eastern region of Kharkiv, a car detonated a Russian mine, resulting in the deaths of four people, including a child. The incident highlights the ongoing danger of mines, with nearly a third of Ukraine's territory mined since the war began in February 2022. These mines have killed 296 civilians and injured 665 others.
Attack on Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital
One of the most devastating attacks occurred at the Okhmatdyt children's hospital in Kiev. A Russian missile strike hit the hospital, injuring at least one child and trapping others under the rubble. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the significance of the hospital, noting its importance not only to Ukraine but also to Europe. He called for global awareness and accountability for Russia's actions, describing the attack as a new form of terror comparable to the atrocities in Bucha.
Ukraine's Military Response and International Support
Despite the relentless attacks, Ukraine has made some progress on the battlefield. Ukrainian troops have reportedly recaptured areas near Kharkiv. However, the Russian military continues to target key Ukrainian cities, including Dnipro and Kryvyi Rih. The Ukrainian military administration reported that the Russian Air Force fired cruise missiles at targets near Zhytomyr, with Ukrainian air defense intercepting three out of four missiles.
In response to the ongoing conflict, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba expressed optimism about the upcoming NATO summit in Washington. He expects significant decisions that will strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities and move the country closer to NATO membership. Ukrainian President Zelensky is also scheduled to meet US House Speaker Mike Johnson during the summit to discuss further support.
