Russia launches biggest missile strike in weeks as up to 120 rockets bombard Ukraine in latest deadly escalation

RUSSIA pounded Ukraine with at least 120 missiles today in one of the biggest ever bombardments. Waves of rockets fired from the sea and the air targeted major cities including the capital Kyiv, Kharkiv in the east and Lviv and Odesa in the west. Burning homes today in Kyiv after a missile attack Explosions were heard across the country, and at least three people were reported wounded in Kyiv. Photos showed the burning wreck of private houses in the Darnitsa district of the capital today. “This is what Russia’s New Year terror looks like,” said Kyrylo Tymoshenko, deputy head of the President’s Office. Victims including a 14-year-old girl were rushed to hospital after homes were hit by debris from a downed missile, said Kyiv mayor Vitaliy Klitschko. He added: “So far, two people have been rescued from a damaged private house. “Rescuers continue search and rescue operations. Rocket debris also damaged a car on one of the central streets.” Meanwhile around 90 per cent of Lviv was without power, suggesting Russia was once again deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure. Another “series of explosions” hit Ukraine’s second city Kharkiv, mayor Igor Terekhov said. Ukraine’s Air Force Command said on social media: “Massive missiles attack… The enemy is attacking Ukraine from various directions with air and sea-based cruise missiles from strategic aircraft and ships.” More than 120 missiles were fired, according to presidential aide Mykhaylo Podolyak. It followed an overnight drone attack on several Ukrainian regions. Yesterday, Ukraine claimed five drones were downed over the city of Dnipro – thought to be Iran-made Shahed-136s. Vladimir Putin has turned to terrorising civilians with missile strikes after humiliating setbacks on the battlefield. Many have targeted energy and water networks, hoping to freeze Ukrainians during the harsh winter.