Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urgently appealed for additional long-range weapons and air defence systems following a deadly missile attack carried out by Russia. The attack on the town of Vilniansk, located near the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia, resulted in the tragic deaths of seven individuals, including two children, while 31 others sustained injuries, according to Ukrainian officials.

The incident on Saturday contributed to a grim toll across Ukraine, with at least 11 civilians losing their lives and 37 others being wounded in missile attacks, as reported by Reuters. President Zelensky voiced his concern on Telegram, expressing that "our cities and communities suffer daily from such Russian strikes." However, he emphasized that there are steps that can be taken to overcome these challenges, such as the destruction of Russian missile launchers, the utilization of genuine long-range capabilities, and the augmentation of modern air defence systems.

President Zelensky shared images from Vilniansk, showcasing a large crater near a smouldering building and several bodies lying on the ground. Ukrainian Prosecutor General Andriy Kostin reported that two missiles struck the town, causing damage to infrastructure, a shop, and residential structures. Additionally, footage shared on Ukraine's Telegram channel depicted a missile strike targeting a railway near Ukrainka, which is situated less than six miles away from Vilniansk. The railway was allegedly used by Ukrainian forces for unloading arms and military equipment.

Tragically, the missile attacks also claimed the lives of four individuals and injured seven others in artillery strikes on three villages near the frontline in the eastern Donetsk region, disclosed Mr Kostin.

In response to the escalating violence, Ukraine's Western allies have already supplied various long-range weapons, including Scalp missiles from France, Storm Shadow missiles from the UK, and ATACMS missiles from the US. Moreover, the US has provided Ukraine with Patriot air defence systems. However, the flow of weapons, particularly from the US, experienced setbacks earlier in 2024 due to a delay in Congress approving a bill for further military aid.

Ukraine has attributed the loss of life and territorial gains by Russia to shortages of ammunition and air defence missiles caused by the delay. President Zelensky has reiterated his call for additional support to secure victory in the ongoing conflict, expressing gratitude to allies for their assistance. However, he underscored the urgency, stating that decisions regarding the provision of further weaponry must be expedited, as any delay in this war means the loss of human lives.

In related news, Lieutenant General Yuriy Sodol has faced public criticism regarding excessive casualties and allegations of incompetence.