Ukraine war update: Hegseth’s unexpected stop in arms aid ‘cost US up to $2.2m’ – report

Ukrainian air defense is working to counter missile strikes on Kiev, as reported by the mayor, following a significant explosion that rocked the city shortly after 1 AM on Wednesday. Three individuals, including children, have lost their lives due to Russian ballistic missile strikes in Smee, Ukraine. Additionally, Ukrainian officials noted ten other injuries.

A barrage of Ukrainian drones has prompted Russia to shut down numerous airports well within its territory. On Tuesday, as foreign leaders assembled in Moscow for the World War II “Victory Day” celebrations, Moscow claimed that Ukraine had launched over 100 drones aimed at 12 regions, the Russian capital included. Meanwhile, Kiev reported that Russia used 136 drones in its assault.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy urged his government to seek support from Western allies, emphasizing the need for an interceptor drone to take down attacking Shahed drones, which are designed by Iran for Russia. “We plan to enhance this capability significantly, with each region accountable for this task,” Zelenskyy stated. Ukraine has already shown various capabilities, with videos circulating online depicting Ukrainian UAVs chasing and neutralizing enemy drones, while others are equipped to fire shotgun cartridges at them.

As the Catholic Cardinals convened in Rome prior to the Conclave, they called for an unconditional ceasefire and negotiations. Their statement highlighted “no progress in achieving peace in Ukraine, the Middle East, and other global regions,” and they made a heartfelt appeal to all parties to negotiate a lasting ceasefire without preconditions.

In a prisoner exchange, Ukraine and Russia each transferred 205 prisoners, a development announced by both sides on Tuesday.