Russia has warned foreign citizens to leave Kyiv, threatening more revenge attacks after a massive missile assault on the Ukrainian capital killed at least four people on Sunday. The warning came as Moscow announced it would launch systematic strikes on military targets and decision-making centres in the city.
Storm Shadow Missiles Strike Luhansk
Ukraine confirmed it used British-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles to destroy a Russian command-and-control post in the occupied Luhansk region. The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine stated that the strike successfully eliminated an important enemy facility, underscoring Ukraine's strategic capabilities. The Storm Shadow, a joint Anglo-French missile with a range of around 155 miles, travels at over 600 mph and weighs 1,300 kg.
Russia previously blamed Britain after a similar Ukrainian strike in March targeted a munitions factory in Bryansk, reportedly killing seven people. Kyiv said it hit one of Russia's most important military factories, the Kremniy El plant.
Zelensky on Missile Defence Talks
President Volodymyr Zelensky reported little progress in talks with the United States on expanding missile defence production. In his nightly address, he said Ukraine is now working with Europe to accelerate the production of anti-ballistic systems on the continent. He thanked French President Emmanuel Macron for his role and stressed the continued need for US leadership and financial support from Europe.
Battlefield Progress
Zelensky noted that Ukrainian forces have achieved stronger battlefield results this year, stabilising parts of the front despite major Russian offensives. He attributed the progress to drone operations, long-range strikes, and technological innovations, adding that Russian military bloggers' complaints indirectly confirm Ukraine's successes.
EU Refuses to Leave Kyiv
The head of the EU mission in Kyiv, Katarina Mathernova, stated that the European Union is not leaving the capital in response to Russia's threats. She said Russia's warning aims to sow fear and panic, but the EU remains steadfast in its support for Ukraine.
Putin Offers Debt Relief for Recruits
President Vladimir Putin signed a decree granting debt relief of up to 10 million roubles to new Ukraine war recruits and their families, effective from 1 May. The recruits must serve for at least one year. The measure adds to other incentives like payouts and educational preferences as Russia seeks to boost its forces.
Lavrov Informs Rubio of Strikes
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told US Secretary of State Marco Rubio by phone that Russia is launching systematic strikes on Kyiv facilities used by the Ukrainian armed forces and decision-making centres, in response to what Moscow calls terrorist attacks on Russian territory.
Drone War Spreads to Europe
Ukraine's advanced drone technology has reportedly been hijacked by Russia, threatening chaos in Europe. Moscow appears to be using the aircraft against Kyiv, escalating the conflict beyond Ukraine's borders.
Oil Refinery Halted
Russia's Syzran oil refinery on the Volga river halted operations after a Ukrainian drone attack last Thursday, damaging a primary processing unit. Industry sources said repairs could take over a month. Two people were killed in the attack, according to the local governor.
