Russian strikes kill 12 in Ukraine as Zelenskyy calls for European air defense expansion

Russian military strikes killed at least 12 people and wounded more than 40 across Ukraine, prompting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to renew calls for increased European support on air defenses.

Zelenskyy characterized the attacks as "horrific" and urged European countries to accelerate development of ballistic missile defense systems. The Ukrainian leader has made strengthening air defenses a priority request to Western allies throughout the conflict with Russia.

The strikes occurred as Russia continues its campaign of missile and drone attacks targeting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Ukrainian officials did not specify locations of the attacks or provide additional details about the casualties on the day of the strikes.

Zelenskyy's appeal to European nations reflects Ukraine's ongoing struggle to counter Russia's aerial assault capabilities. The country has sought advanced air defense systems from NATO allies, including the Patriot air defense system and other anti-missile technologies. European countries have provided some defensive equipment, though Ukraine maintains that current capabilities remain insufficient to fully protect populated areas from the scale of Russian attacks.

The death toll and casualty figures from individual strikes have fluctuated throughout the conflict as officials confirm reports and adjust counts. Ukrainian authorities regularly report on casualties from Russian attacks across multiple regions.