In a major Ukrainian drone attack, multiple Russian arms depots were set ablaze, destroying thousands of tons of weaponry, including missiles from North Korea. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for urgent action from the United States to send more weapons before his upcoming visit to the White House. Ukraine launched over 100 drones at Russia and the occupied Crimean Peninsula, causing significant damage to arms and ammunition depots. Zelenskyy plans to present a multi-point “victory plan” to U.S. President Joe Biden during his visit, including long-range strike capabilities and other weapons sought by Kyiv. This plan will serve as the basis for any future negotiations with Russia.
Although Zelenskyy has not provided many details about the victory plan, he indicated that it contains terms acceptable for Ukraine to engage in negotiations with Russia. He emphasized the importance of having a plan to show during discussions with Russian representatives. Zelenskyy also expressed frustration over the U.S.’s reluctance to allow Ukraine to use Western weapons to conduct deep strikes inside Russia, citing fears of escalation from Moscow. However, he stressed that delaying the use of long-range missiles could render them tactically obsolete. Zelenskyy’s remarks come as he prepares for a busy week in the United States, including meetings with President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris to garner support for Ukraine in the ongoing war.
Russian depots were also targeted in a separate drone attack, resulting in the destruction of approximately 2,000 tons of weaponry, including missiles provided by North Korea. The strikes caused explosions near the town of Toropets in Russia’s Tver region, prompting the closure of a highway and evacuation of passengers. Ukrainian drones also targeted a military depot in the town itself, causing significant ordnance losses, according to the U.K. defense ministry. The Ministry referenced reports of North Korean missiles being stored at Toropets, but could not independently confirm. Additionally, an ammunition depot and missile arsenal in southwestern Russia caught fire, leading to evacuations and a state of emergency declaration.
In Ukraine, casualties were reported as a result of Russian missile strikes, including the death of a 12-year-old boy and two women in Kryvyi Rih, Zelenskyy’s hometown. The missiles struck at nighttime, causing destruction to buildings and injuries to several individuals. In Kharkiv, airstrikes wounded 15 people, including young teenagers. Russian drone and artillery strikes continued to cause civilian casualties in Ukraine’s southern regions, with additional injuries reported in Kherson and Sumy. The ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread casualties and damage, highlighting the urgent need for international support for Ukraine. Zelenskyy’s visit to the United States aims to bolster support for Ukraine and address the escalating situation in the region.
