Over 60 Missiles Fired: Russia's Deadly 'Double-Tap' Strike Rocks Kyiv

New Delhi: Russia did not let Ukraine sleep all night. More than 60 missiles and around 700 drones were released simultaneously. Kiev was targeted the most. This is called 'double tap'. Meaning, first drop the bomb, then when people come to save them, attack again. This is the most dangerous air attack since the war started. 

Where did the destruction occur?

1. Kiev: At least 4 people died, including a 12-year-old child. More than 50 people were injured. A 5-story residential building was partially destroyed, the roof of a 7-story building caught fire. A 14-story building was also attacked.
2. All of Ukraine: A total of 16 people died and more than 80 were injured. 9 died in Odessa, 3 in Dnipro and 1 in Zaporozhye.
3. Scale of attack: Russia fired about 700 drones and dozens of ballistic-cruise missiles. Ukrainian Air Force shot down 667 targets out of 703, yet 20 drones and 12 missiles fell at 26 places.  

What is 'double tap' strategy?

In 'Double Tap', after the first attack, when the rescue team, ambulance and common people reach for help, only then the second attack done with missile or drone. The aim is to cause maximum damage. Five ambulances in Kyiv were also damaged in the attack. Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrei Sibiha described it as a "war crime". 

What reason did Russia give for the attack?

Moscow's Defense Ministry claimed it targeted drone-making factories and military bases in Kiev. Russia also said that this attack was a response to Ukraine's drone attacks in Russia. 

What warning did America give?

America warned Russia not to carry out "systematic strikes". US Deputy Ambassador Tammy Bruce described Russia's use of the Oroshnik ballistic missile as "dangerous and barbaric". But Russia ignored the warning and said it would launch new attacks on "command centres".

Why can't Ukraine get weapons?

America has stopped the supply of some important weapons including Patriot missile to Ukraine. Zelensky said that some partner countries have reneged on their promise to provide missiles. Ukraine fears that America's advanced weapons are being destroyed in the Iran-Israel war. This attack took place on Tuesday and is considered to be the biggest drone-missile attack of the war.