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Russian Strikes on Western Ukraine Kill and Wound Dozens

In a deadly escalation of the war, Russian missile strikes targeted western Ukraine overnight, killing and injuring dozens of civilians. The attacks struck residential areas and critical infrastructure, sparking international condemnation as the conflict nears its third year.

Deadly Strikes Hit Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk

The missile barrage focused on the Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions—previously considered safer due to their distance from the front lines. Ukrainian officials confirmed at least 12 killed, including two children, and over 50 wounded. Emergency crews worked through the night rescuing survivors from rubble.

One of the worst attacks destroyed a residential block in Lviv, trapping families beneath debris. Authorities described chaotic scenes as air raid sirens sounded continuously.

Energy Infrastructure Targeted, Power Outages Reported

Beyond civilian casualties, Russian missiles damaged energy facilities, causing blackouts in western Ukraine. Ukraine’s Energy Minister confirmed crews were working to restore power. The strikes follow Russia’s winter strategy of weakening Ukraine’s power grid, worsening conditions for civilians.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as “another act of Russian terror” and urged Western allies to speed up deliveries of F-16 jets and Patriot missile systems.

International Outrage and Calls for Stronger Support

World leaders swiftly denounced the strikes:
– NATO’s Jens Stoltenberg called the attack “barbaric.”
– U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged continued military aid.
– The EU announced new sanctions on Russian defense industries.

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stressed urgency: “Every delay in aid costs Ukrainian lives. We need weapons, not just words.”

Russia’s Shift in Tactics: Targeting Western Ukraine

Military analysts suggest Russia is now striking deeper into Ukraine to:
✅ Disrupt Western military supply routes
✅ Undermine civilian morale
✅ Strain humanitarian resources

Experts warn that without stronger air defenses, Ukraine remains vulnerable. “Russia is exploiting gaps in anti-missile coverage,” one analyst said.

Deepening Humanitarian Crisis

The strikes have worsened Ukraine’s displacement crisis. Thousands who fled to Lviv for safety now face renewed danger. Aid groups are scrambling to provide shelter, medical care, and psychological support.

“People thought they escaped war—only for it to follow them,” an aid worker said.

What’s Next for Ukraine?

As Ukraine prepares for more attacks, pressure grows for faster Western military aid. Decisions on additional support packages are expected soon.

Zelensky vowed defiance: “We will not be intimidated.” Yet with rising casualties, the stakes escalate daily.

— Reported by [Your Name], NextMinuteNews

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