**Ukraine Faces Unprecedented Russian Air Assault: A Night of Terror in Kyiv**

In a harrowing escalation of conflict, Ukraine endured its most significant air assault since the war began, as Russia unleashed a relentless barrage of over 550 drones and missiles throughout the night. The capital, Kyiv, and other cities across the nation were engulfed in chaos, with residents forced to seek shelter for nearly eight hours as Ukraine’s air defenses struggled to cope with the overwhelming onslaught.

Explosions lit up the night sky over Kyiv, punctuated by the chilling sounds of incoming missiles. Witnesses described the scene as surreal, grappling with the reality of an attack that seemed never-ending. Ukrainian authorities confirmed that the assault, which lasted for eight hours, targeted critical railway infrastructure and residential buildings, igniting fires and causing widespread destruction. Falling debris even set a hospital ablaze, leaving many questioning the rationale behind such indiscriminate targeting.

This unprecedented attack comes on the heels of concerning news from Washington, where the U.S. announced a halt in some military aid to Ukraine, raising alarms about the country’s ability to defend itself. As dawn broke, the immediate priority shifted to assessing the damage and the implications for Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly in light of the failure to intercept any ballistic missiles.

Amidst the chaos, reports emerged of Russian forces increasingly utilizing banned chemical weapons on the battlefield. German and Dutch intelligence revealed systematic use of chloropicrine, a dangerous agent that inflicts severe harm, further complicating the dire situation for Ukrainian troops.

With the specter of escalating violence and the prospect of peace negotiations receding, Ukraine stands at a critical juncture. As the smoke clears, the nation braces for the daunting task of recovery while facing an uncertain future in the ongoing conflict.