Zelenskyy confirms at least 16 people killed in Russian airstrike on market town

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed the devastating loss of at least 16 lives in a Russian airstrike on a peaceful market town in the eastern Donetsk region.

Tragically, among the victims is a child, and there are reports of at least 28 others being injured in the brutal attack.

Russia's relentless barrage of missiles on Ukraine's soil has long targeted innocent civilians, and this strike is yet another haunting reminder of the cruelty inflicted upon them.

In an emotional social media post, President Zelenskyy expressed his outrage, stating, 'A regular market. Shops. A pharmacy. People who did nothing wrong. This Russian evil must be defeated as soon as possible.'

The missile struck Kostiantynivka, a city near the front lines with Russian forces, which is home to around 65,000 residents.

Despite the chaos and destruction caused by this tragedy, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal reassured the public that all essential services are operational and the fire has been contained.

Shockingly, the airstrike occurred mere hours after the arrival of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Kyiv for an unannounced visit with President Zelenskyy.

Blinken's visit is focused on assessing Ukraine's counteroffensive strategy and its effectiveness in combating the Russian forces.

Unfortunately, as Ukraine enters the bitter winter months, their hopes for a major breakthrough against the Russian lines are diminishing, making this counteroffensive a race against time.

During his visit, Blinken is set to meet with Prime Minister Shmyhal and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to discuss the ongoing counteroffensive and reconstruction efforts.

The United States has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine throughout this conflict, delivering over $110 billion in military aid since the war began.

President Biden's administration is committed to maintaining this support, with Blinken expected to announce a smaller package of assistance during his visit, followed by a larger announcement from the White House later in the week.