Sun Sep 15 16:15:36 UTC 2024: ## Ukraine and Russia Trade Strikes as Casualties Mount
**KYIV, Ukraine (AP)** – Overnight strikes between Ukraine and Russia have resulted in casualties on both sides, with the Ukrainian port city of Odesa hit hardest.
Two civilians were killed and one injured when a Russian missile attack targeted Odesa’s suburbs on Saturday night, according to regional governor Oleh Kiper. The victims were identified as a married couple. Meanwhile, a Russian aerial bomb struck a residential building in Kharkiv on Sunday afternoon, injuring at least 33 people. The bomb hit the 10th floor, causing a fire that spread to four floors.
In response, Ukraine’s air force reported shooting down 10 out of 14 drones and one of three missiles launched by Russia overnight. The Russian Defense Ministry, however, claimed to have downed 29 Ukrainian drones over western and southwestern regions, without reporting any damage. They also reported shooting down another drone over the Ryazan region on Sunday morning.
These attacks come amidst Ukraine’s renewed push for Western support to use long-range missiles provided by allies to strike targets deep inside Russia. While the U.S. has permitted their use within a limited area along the border, Kyiv argues that they are vital to deter Russian attacks and force Moscow to move its offensive capabilities further away.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy took to social media to reiterate this plea, highlighting the need for stronger air defense, long-range weapons, and support for Ukrainian troops to counter what he described as Russian “terror.” Zelenskyy noted that Russia had launched a barrage of missiles, bombs, and drones against Ukraine this week.
As the conflict continues, the escalating exchange of strikes underscores the growing pressure on both sides and the need for a diplomatic solution to end the war.
First Piper 