A large-scale Russian drone and missile attack struck Ternopil, Ukraine, Tuesday night, killing at least 25 people and injuring 73, according to Ukrainian officials. The strike, which targeted two nine-story residential buildings, left emergency crews working to rescue survivors and extinguish fires. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russia launched over 470 drones and 48 missiles, hitting nine regions, including critical infrastructure and civilian targets in Lviv and Kharkiv. Poland responded by scrambling fighter jets and increasing air defense readiness, citing the need to protect its airspace near the border.
The attack has intensified concerns over the escalating conflict, with Zelenskyy calling for stronger international support, particularly for air defense systems and drone production to counter Russian aggression. He emphasized the importance of effective sanctions and military aid in deterring further strikes. The incident also prompted Romania and Latvia to confirm that Russian drones had intruded into NATO airspace, raising alarm about the potential for broader regional conflict.
As the situation unfolds, the international community faces mounting pressure to bolster its support for Ukraine, particularly in light of the increasing frequency and scale of Russian attacks. Meanwhile, the strategic implications of these strikes extend beyond Ukraine, with neighboring countries taking defensive measures to safeguard their borders and airspace. The coordinated response from NATO allies underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a unified front against continued aggression.