A severe missile attack by Russian forces on the Trypilska thermal power plant near Kyiv, Ukraine, resulted in the complete destruction of the facility, leaving up to 200,000 people without electricity. This assault was part of a broader offensive involving over 40 missile strikes and drone attacks across five Ukrainian regions, impacting major cities including Kharkiv, Lviv, and Kyiv.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the targeting of critical infrastructure and called for international support, emphasizing the need for air defense systems. The attacks also caused several casualties: in Kharkiv, strikes on a grocery store and a pharmacy killed three people, including a 14-year-old girl, and in the Odesa region, missile strikes resulted in the deaths of four people, including a 10-year-old girl.

In a related development, former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, speaking at a conservative event in Canada, advocated for Ukraine’s inclusion in NATO. Johnson emphasized the importance of not yielding to Russian President Vladimir Putin and advocated for robust support for Ukraine, both from the UK and the US.

Meanwhile, Army Gen. Christopher Cavoli warned the US Congress that Ukraine risks being significantly outgunned by Russia without swift military aid. He highlighted that Ukrainian forces are currently facing a five to one disparity in artillery fire from Russia, a situation that could worsen rapidly. The prompt passage of funding to support the production of munitions in the US is crucial, as delays could jeopardize Ukraine’s military capabilities and broader societal stability.

The ongoing conflict and international responses continue to underscore the critical need for aid and strategic support for Ukraine as it faces growing pressures from Russian military actions.