Zelensky claims six people were killed in a Russian missile attack on Krivoy Rog. He calls for stronger air defenses

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on social networks that Russia’s missile attack on Krivoy Rog killed six people and injured 11. He called on partners to strengthen air defense.

“Every day, every hour, Russian terrorist activities prove that Ukraine and its partners must strengthen their air defense,” Zelensky wrote on the Telegram messaging platform. “Modern air defense systems ensure maximum protection of the people, our cities and positions. We need them most,” he added.

Kryvyi Rih is located in the Dnipropetrovsk region of central Ukraine. Local official Mykola Lukasuk said “the Russians attacked the city” and urged residents to stay in shelters. The Ukrainian Air Force had previously warned that a “high-speed” target was flying towards the city.

Last night, Russia launched another massive airstrike against Ukraine, primarily targeting the Kiev region. The Ukrainian Air Force reported shooting down 29 of 30 Russian missiles and drones.

Ukrainian political and military officials have long considered strengthening air defenses a priority. They are asking Western partners for systems they claim would greatly help Ukrainian forces counter Russian air strikes not only against Ukrainian military targets but also its energy grid and civilian areas.

US media reported today that the United States will provide Kiev with a second set of Patriot air defense systems. In recent days, several European countries have also pledged to provide other systems.