"Putin Intensifies Attacks on Ukraine Amid Calls for Increased Congressional Aid"

On January 2, Russian forces launched a significant missile attack on Ukraine's largest cities, Kyiv and Kharkiv, using hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and other types, resulting in at least five deaths and nearly 100 injuries. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy reported that air defense systems, including Western-supplied Patriots and NASAMS, intercepted about 70 missiles, primarily around Kyiv. The attacks caused extensive damage to residential buildings and continued a pattern of escalated strikes that began on December 29. This assault follows a wave of drone attacks on New Year's Day, with Russia's President Putin vowing to intensify military actions against Ukraine.