Explosions Occur in Russian City Belgorod and Occupied Crimea during Ukraine Conflict

Overnight, there were loud explosions in parts of south-west Russia and occupied Crimea. Russian officials claim that the border city of Belgorod, where 25 people were previously killed, and Sevastopol in Crimea came under attack. In recent days, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has escalated in the air. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that Russia has launched around 300 missiles and 200 drones over the course of five days. Just last week, Russia initiated its largest aerial bombardment since the invasion began, resulting in the deaths of more than 40 individuals. In retaliation, Ukrainian forces attacked Belgorod, leaving over 100 people injured. Governor of the region reported additional explosions in Belgorod overnight, indicating the destruction of several drones. Meanwhile, in Sevastopol, a missile was intercepted over the port without any reported casualties or damage. On Tuesday, Russian missiles struck Ukraine's major cities, including Kharkiv and Kyiv, resulting in the death of at least five people and injuring dozens. In response to recent attacks by Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his determination to intensify strikes. President Zelensky confirmed on Tuesday that Russia launched nearly 100 missiles that day, designed to cause substantial damage. Ukraine's ambassador to the US, Oksana Markarova, stated in an interview with the BBC that Russia's bombardment did not come as a surprise and emphasized the need for Ukraine to acquire additional weapons to effectively respond and send a clear message to Russia to cease its actions.