Reciprocal strikes intensify as Zelensky pushes for air defenses

Reciprocal aerial bombardment between Ukrainian and Russian forces has intensified, striking population centers and strategic targets across both countries. Ukrainian drone attacks hit the outer suburbs of Moscow, Belgorod, occupied Crimea, and Gelendzhik, resulting in multiple casualties. Simultaneously, Russian glide bombs and missile barrages hit residential districts in Zaporizhzhia, Kyiv, and Dnipro, leaving at least 17 people dead and dozens injured.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed urgent calls for Western air defense interceptors and asserted that Ukraine will not voluntarily retreat from Donbas. However, Donald Trump voiced caution regarding the transfer of sensitive Patriot missile technology to Kyiv.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica, La Stampa.