Kyiv Mayor: Several Explosions Shake the Capital of Ukraine

Vitaly Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv, announced that several explosions shook the capital of Ukraine in the early hours of Sunday, May 28, 2023. He stated that the information received is under investigation and that defense systems are currently intercepting aerial targets. The mayor said on the Telegram messaging app: "Explosions in Kyiv. Information is under investigation. Details will be clarified later. The air defense system in the area is active, and targets have been intercepted." Eyewitnesses told Reuters that several explosions occurred after air raid alerts were declared in Kyiv and a wide area of Ukraine. On Thursday, May 25, 2023, Ukraine announced that it had shot down 36 drones made by the Islamic Republic that had been launched in nighttime attacks by Russia, adding that these drones were likely targeting critical infrastructure and military facilities. Meanwhile, Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, recently urged Iranian officials to "reconsider" the supply of deadly drones to Russia and to prevent their slide into the "dark side of history." Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, during his recent visit to Kyiv and meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky, emphasized that the U.S. commitment to supporting Ukraine and its territorial integrity is resolute. He also told Ukrainian leaders and citizens: "Stay united and strengthen this unity, as it has never been more important." Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, and currently, parts of Ukrainian territory are occupied by Russian forces. The Russian President, who has framed the invasion of Ukraine as a battle for Russia's survival against the West, has repeatedly warned that his country will use any means to defend itself. In contrast, the United States and its allies have emphasized their continued support for Ukraine against the Russian invasion "for as long as it takes."