Russian missiles hit Odesa Oblast, killing four, including a 10-year-old girl

According to Oleh Kiper, Head of Odesa Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram, along with reports from Ukraine’s Air Force and Defence Forces of Ukraine’s South, four civilians, including a 10-year-old girl, tragically lost their lives in a Russian missile attack on the Odesa district of Odesa Oblast.

Kiper stated, "Four people were killed in the Russian missile attack on the Odesa district this evening, including one child, a 10-year-old girl. Another seven civilians sustained injuries, including one man who is now in a critical condition and has had both legs amputated. Doctors are doing all they can."

The attack occurred between 18:00 and 18:30, with early reports suggesting the deployment of Iskander-M ballistic missiles. The strike caused damage to transport infrastructure facilities and several lorries in the Odesa district.

Ukraine’s Air Force confirmed that a missile was detected heading towards Odesa at 18:19. Additionally, the Defence Forces of Ukraine’s South reported that a petrol station was among the targets struck.

This tragic incident underscores the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict, resulting in loss of innocent lives and significant damage to infrastructure.

Russian forces strike hospital in Vovchansk, Kharkiv Oblast, injuring two civilians

According to Oleh Syniehubov, Head of Kharkiv Oblast Military Administration, on Telegram, Russian forces launched an attack on the city of Vovchansk in Kharkiv Oblast on the afternoon of Wednesday, April 10. The assault resulted in injuries to two men, both aged 54.

Syniehubov stated, "Two civilians, both men aged 54, sustained injuries in enemy attacks on Vovchansk, which took place today between 12:20 and 14:15. One of the men is an employee at the medical establishment that the Russians struck."

This incident highlights the ongoing danger faced by civilians in conflict-affected areas, where attacks by Russian forces continue to cause harm and destruction.

In a few weeks, Russia will outnumber Ukraine in artillery 10 to 1

Source: Washington Post

General Christopher Cavoli stated that within weeks, Russia will have the capacity to launch ten artillery shells for every one round fired by Ukraine if additional U.S. aid is not provided.

The top U.S. general overseeing military operations in Europe, Gen. Christopher Cavoli, issued a warning to lawmakers on Wednesday, emphasizing that the war in Ukraine has reached a critical juncture. He cautioned that Russia is expected to hold a significant advantage of 10-1 in artillery shells over Ukraine "within weeks" unless the United States approves additional military support for Kyiv.

Cavoli stressed the gravity of the situation while testifying before the House Armed Services Committee, highlighting that Ukraine faces the imminent risk of running out of artillery shells and air-defense munitions without additional U.S. assistance. He emphasized the importance of the ability to retaliate, stating, "The side that can't shoot back loses," underscoring the high stakes involved.

This dire assessment comes amid political obstacles within the U.S., with House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) refusing to hold a vote on a national security spending package that includes approximately $60 billion for Ukraine. Although the Senate passed a $95.3 billion bill in February, Johnson has faced opposition from fellow conservatives who are against additional spending on Ukraine, threatening to end his speakership if he proceeds. Instead, Johnson has hinted at introducing alternative legislation soon but has not specified a timeline for a vote.

Cavoli's testimony represents the latest in a series of warnings from senior U.S. officials urging Congress to act swiftly in providing more aid to Ukraine to halt Russia's advances on the battlefield. Failure to do so could result in dire consequences, including significant Ukrainian casualties or a collapse of Ukrainian front lines.

Cavoli also highlighted Russia's broader strategic ambitions, noting its alliances with China, North Korea, and Iran as it challenges international norms. He stressed the importance of U.S. leadership in addressing these threats, emphasizing that the issue is crucial to U.S. national security interests.

Accompanying Cavoli during the hearing, Celeste Wallander, a senior Pentagon official, reiterated the Biden administration's goal of delivering a strategic defeat to Russian President Vladimir Putin. She emphasized that U.S. actions are driven by American national security interests and the commitment to supporting allies and partners, including Ukraine, to ensure security both at home and abroad.