Russia continues its terror against Ukraine’s civilian population. On July 8, 2024, for the second time in a day, Russian terrorists launched a massive missile strike on peaceful Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, Sloviansk, and Kramatorsk. The targets were civilian infrastructure and residential buildings, causing numerous casualties and widespread destruction.
Russia launched more than 40 missiles of various types, including cruise missiles from Tu-95 bombers, ballistic missiles, as well as “Kinzhal” and “Kalibr” missiles. In Kyiv, missile strikes and debris caused damage to civilian infrastructure across six districts of the city. In total, 13 people were reported dead and 20 injured in Kyiv, and 10 dead and 47 injured in Kryvyi Rih. These numbers are likely to rise as new victims are identified.
A particularly horrific attack occurred on the children’s hospital “Okhmatdyt,” where hundreds of children with severe illnesses are treated daily. The Russian army targeted sick children, showcasing its cruelty and cynicism. This attack emphasizes the necessity of increasing pressure on Russia and providing significantly more assistance to Ukraine.
Impact on the NATO Summit in Washington
On the eve of the NATO Summit, Putin once again demonstrated the savage nature of his war, complete disregard for the opinion of the international community, and a fanatical desire to seize Ukraine and destroy its people. This barbaric shelling underscores the need for a consolidated response from NATO member countries.
Ukraine requires high-precision and powerful weaponry, as well as authorization to destroy Russian military targets from which attacks are launched. Western partners must understand the critical necessity of providing Ukraine with air and missile defense systems and other armaments to protect the civilian population.
Joint production of air defense systems with Western partners is one way to save Ukraine from Russian missile terror. Only a united, consolidated stance by countries at the NATO Summit can save Ukraine and demonstrate to Putin the readiness of the civilized world to stop him.
Challenges and Prospects
Russian missile attacks are a challenge to the entire civilized community. The international community should have no illusions about Putin’s fictitious claims of negotiations, ceasefires, and “freezing the war.” After such constant brutal missile attacks on peaceful Ukrainian cities, no negotiations with Russia are possible. Russian terror against the civilian population of Ukraine must be stopped.
Only united and powerful support from Western partners will allow Ukraine to defend its independence and stop Russian aggression. At the NATO Summit in Washington, a decision should be made on a significant increase in military aid to Ukraine, including the supply of modern air and missile defense systems. This is necessary to ensure the safety of Ukrainian citizens and preserve Ukrainian cities from further destruction.
Western partners of Ukraine must provide long-term support, enabling Ukraine to steadfastly resist Russian aggression and ensure peace and stability in the region. Only decisive actions by the international community can stop Putin and restore peace in Europe.
