Russian strike kills 17 in Ukraine as Antony Blinken unveils US$1 billion in new aid
- President Zelensky condemned the attack that hit a crowded market in the ‘peaceful city’ of Kostiantynivka
- The US wartime assistance package will include Himars missile systems, Javelin anti-tank weapons, Abrams tanks and depleted uranium ammunition
Ukraine has made important progress in its counteroffensive against Russia’s invasion, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday during a visit overshadowed by a Russian attack that killed at least 17 people.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, which hit a crowded market in the city of Kostiantynivka, close to the battlefield. He said a child was among the dead, and officials said at least 32 people were hurt.
“This Russian evil must be defeated as soon as possible,” Zelensky said, describing it as a deliberate attack on a “peaceful city”. Aides posted video footage showing an explosion after what sounded like a missile approaching, and people scurrying for cover or falling to the ground.
Russia did not immediately comment on the attack, and has denied deliberately targeting civilians.
Blinken, the first top US official to visit Kyiv since the counteroffensive began in early June, announced a new package of US wartime assistance worth more than US$1 billion, including support for Ukraine’s air defences.