In response to a series of air strikes launched by Russia overnight, the United Kingdom has announced that it will be sending an additional 200 air defence missiles to Ukraine. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) made the announcement, stating that the move is aimed at bolstering Ukraine's air defence capabilities in the face of escalating aggression. Ukrainian officials have reported that at least 30 people were killed in the recent wave of Russian attacks, making it the deadliest since the war began.

Defence Secretary Grant Shapps emphasized that this package of support sends a clear message that Britain is firmly committed to supporting Ukraine during these challenging times. Shapps condemned the Russian strikes as "murderous" and stressed the importance of protecting civilians and infrastructure from further harm.

The missiles being sent by the UK are advanced short-range air-to-air missiles specifically designed to strike down Russian drones and missiles with exceptional accuracy. The MoD highlighted that Ukrainian operators have already demonstrated proficiency in using these systems and have requested additional supplies. The aim of the delivery is to provide enhanced protection against drones and aerial bombings.

This initiative adds to the already significant support that the UK has provided to Ukraine. The MoD revealed that a squadron of battle-ready Challenger 2 tanks, three batteries of self-propelled AS90 guns, numerous armored and protected vehicles, as well as long-range precision strike capabilities in the form of Storm Shadow cruise missiles and long-range attack drones, have been supplied, amounting to an overall commitment of approximately £4.6 billion.

However, concerns have arisen regarding the wavering support for Ukraine from Western nations after nearly three years of conflict in the region and the emergence of a new conflict in the Middle East. Disagreement among European countries regarding aid to Ukraine has also emerged, with Hungary blocking a £43 billion (€50 billion) EU aid package earlier this month.

Defence Secretary Shapps, in response to these concerns, expressed that Vladimir Putin, the Russian President, is testing Ukraine's defences and the West's resolve, hoping to achieve victory. Shapps staunchly declared that Putin is mistaken and that Ukraine's resilience, particularly evident in their degradation of the Russian Black Sea fleet, proves they are determined to win. The air defence package announced today serves as an unwavering message, demonstrating the UK's resolute commitment to supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to social media, denouncing the attacks as evidence of Putin's relentless pursuit of eradicating freedom and democracy. Sunak assured that the UK will not let him achieve his goals and pledged ongoing support to Ukraine for as long as necessary.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been actively urging western allies to provide Ukraine with increased air defence capabilities to counter aerial attacks. Poland's air defence system initially detected the incoming threats but subsequently lost track of them. The devastating strikes targeted various cities, including Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipropetrovsk, Kharkiv, and Lviv, leading to widespread destruction and the injury of over 160 people.

As the situation intensifies, Russia faces accusations of utilizing Iranian-made drones in its repeated attacks on Ukraine's civilian population. Disturbing videos have surfaced, showcasing missiles exploding over the capital city of Kyiv, as part of Russia's latest wave of assault across the country.