KYIV, Sep 16: Russian forces launched a rocket attack on Zaporizhzhia overnight, wounding 20 people, including four children, and damaging over 20 apartment buildings.
Fires broke out across the city, which was still recovering from earlier strikes. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed his appeal to European leaders to establish a multilayered air defence system across the continent, emphasizing that the technology exists but strong political will and investment are needed.
Over the past two weeks alone, Russia has launched more than 3,500 drones, 2,500 glide bombs, and nearly 200 missiles at Ukraine, Zelenskyy said. Glide bombs, dropped from high altitudes, are difficult to intercept and leave significant destruction. Meanwhile, Russian drones have even landed on Polish territory, prompting NATO to strengthen regional air defences.
Zelenskyy urged tighter sanctions on Russia, arguing that only severe economic consequences would push Moscow toward diplomacy. He said Russia continues its aggression because it “doesn’t feel any pain.”
In retaliation, Ukraine has developed long-range drones that have struck deep into Russian territory, targeting oil infrastructure. The Ukrainian military confirmed hitting a refinery in Russia’s Saratov region, contributing to gasoline shortages amid rising demand.
Russia also hit a civilian logistics centre near Kyiv and a university in Kharkiv, where four people were injured. Zelenskyy shared footage of the drone strike in Kharkiv and reiterated calls for global support to pressure Russia into peace.
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump blamed both sides for the ongoing war, urging Zelenskyy to “make a deal” and calling for Europe to halt Russian oil imports. He suggested placing high tariffs on China’s purchases of Russian oil as a way to end the conflict. However, no clear peace settlement is in sight despite ongoing US-led diplomatic efforts. (AP)