Nine killed in Russian attacks on Ukraine ahead of G7 summit

Emergency workers search for victims after in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine. PIC/AP

Russian forces launched new deadly attacks on Ukraine, killing at least nine people on Wednesday, a day before the leaders of countries that are some of Ukraine's biggest backers were to discuss how to slow Moscow's offensive. Ukrainian authorities said that along with the nine killed, 29 others, including five children, were wounded when Russian missiles hit an apartment block in Kryvyi Rih, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's hometown.

Zelensky said the strike has again proven that "Ukraine, together with its partners, must strengthen its air defences", something that he has repeatedly appealed for with Ukraine's Western partners. The US has agreed to send another Patriot missile system, two US officials said late Tuesday.

G7 leaders at a work session at the Borgo Egnazia resort in Italy. PIC/AFP

"Modern air defence systems are capable of providing maximum protection of people, our cities, and our positions," Zelensky said. "And we need as many of them as possible." Earlier on Wednesday, Ukraine's air force said it shot down more than two dozen air targets, including cruise missiles, a Kinzhal ballistic missile and Shahed drones. Several people were wounded, authorities said.

UK pledges $310 mn in nonmilitary aid to Ukraine

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged up to 242 million pounds (286 million euros or USD 310 million) in nonmilitary aid to Ukraine as G7 leaders gather for a summit overshadowed by war. Sunak took time out from the UK election campaign to attend the gathering in southern Italy. The UK has pledged 12.5 billion pounds to Ukraine since the Russian invasion.

G7 leaders agree to lend Ukraine $50 bn

Officials say the world's seven wealthiest democracies have agreed on lending Ukraine up to USD 50 billion using frozen Russian assets as collateral. Diplomats confirmed the agreement, which was struck before Thursday's start of the three-day G7 summit that brings together Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the US. The US and Ukraine will also sign a bilateral security agreement during the summit.

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