Russia unleashes missile attack despite Christmas celebrations; 54 of 69 missiles shot down, claims Ukraine

KYIV: Russia continues its offensive against Ukraine despite the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Ukrainian military sources said 54 of the 69 Russian missiles fired at the capital city were successfully shot down in the early hours of Thursday. The statement said that 54 missiles were destroyed by the air defense system before reaching the target. In recent days, Ukraine has reported that Russia used about 120 missiles for the attack.

At the same time, the Russian president has quashed Ukraine's consensus move to end the war during Christmas time. Months before Ukraine plunged into the Christmas season winter, Russia had stepped up attacks using Iranian-made drones, in places including Kyiv. Ukraine's energy centres and supply chain were mainly targeted by Russia through such attacks. As per reports, the people of Ukraine are suffering its consequences in winter.

Russia has hit Ukrainian targets using Shaheen drones. The US has announced that it will provide Ukraine with the 'Patriot' air defense system to counter Russian missiles.