Russia has launched about 170 drones and dozens of rockets at Ukraine since December 31 – Zelensky

Against the backdrop of the morning massive Russian attack, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that since December 31, Russian invaders have used around 170 Shahed drones and dozens of missiles of various types against Ukraine. 

Zelensky shared on Telegram that the absolute majority of missiles and drones targeted civilian facilities, Rubryka reports.

The president stressed that Ukrainian air defense forces "have been doing an incredible job" for the third consecutive day.

"I thank all the partners who help strengthen our air shield. It's evident that this assistance is saving hundreds of lives every day and night, lives that would be taken by Russian terror if not for the Patriots and other defense systems," he said.

The head of the state announced that this year, the work would continue "with everyone in the world who values life" to further strengthen the Ukrainian air shield and hold Russia accountable for its actions.

Speaking about the latest massive attack on the morning of January 2, Zelensky noted that the elimination of consequences was ongoing, and all necessary services were involved.

Overall, in Kyiv, Kharkiv, and the Kyiv region, there are four reported deaths and 92 injured civilians. Assistance is being provided to all affected.

Morning Massive Attack on Ukraine

A series of powerful explosions were reported in the morning in Kyiv. Russian forces launched ballistic missiles at the capital. Air defense systems were activated to repel the attack.

Falling debris was recorded in many city areas. Problems with electricity and water supply were reported in a few city districts. In the capital, over 25 were injured, and one person died in an ambulance.

According to the Kyiv City Military Administration, air defense forces downed all Shahed attack drones, over 60 Kh-101/Kh-555/Kh-55 missiles, and a dozen "Kinzhal" rockets in Kyiv. The air raid alarm lasted for almost six hours.

In the Kyiv region, three people were killed by Russian missiles. Another 11 are injured, including a child. Multi-story residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure have been damaged.

The city of Kharkiv also faced a massive rocket strike. A 91-year-old woman died in the attack, and 44 people are known to be injured. Multi-story residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure have been damaged.