Russia’s intensifying missiles strikes on Ukraine’s cities are a grim reminder how key Western support is

As the impasse over passing billions of dollars in aid continues in the US Congress, civilians are being killed or injured by Moscow’s aerial bombardment, writes Askold Krushelnycky

Residents leave their apartment building damaged during a Russian missile strike in Kyiv (Reuters)

With critical military supplies from Ukraine’s most important ally, America, in danger of drying up, Russia is stretching Ukraine’s air defences to the limit with an intensified onslaught using drones and ballistic missiles.

More than 50 people, including six children, were injured after Russia launched 10 ballistic missiles at the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, early on Wednesday.

Ballistic missiles are more difficult to detect than other types like cruise missiles or drones, whose entire journey is powered by engines. The important difference in ballistic missiles is that the last stage of their trajectory is unpowered giving less warning where they will land.