Mike Baker

sanctions that have left foreign buyers wary of touching Russian crude.

Russia responded the way that it usually does, by firing back at Ukrainian cities.

Air defenses across Kyiv activated on Friday amid a massive Russian drone and missile barrage, which the capital's mayor described as one of the largest aerial attacks of the war.

The onslaught involved roughly 430 Iranian-made Shahed drones and 18 ballistic and cruise missiles, which hit both the capital city and energy facilities in southern Ukraine.

But unlike Kyiv's attack, it's worth noting that the Russians did not limit their targets to strategic energy sites.

Russia's bombardment of Kyiv indiscriminately targeted apartment buildings and civilian infrastructure, killing at least six people and injuring at least 34.

The attack also damaged the Azerbaijani embassy in Kyiv.

In a statement, President Zelenskyy denounced the attack and said, quote, only pressure with sanctions and strength can force Russia to end this war, a war that no one but them ever needed, end quote.

He thanked Western allies for helping strengthen Ukraine's air defenses in recent months, but said it's not enough.

Zelenskyy reiterated his request for additional systems and interceptor missiles, saying, quote, Europe and the U.S.

can help.

We are counting on real decisions, end quote.

Despite the blowback on Kyiv, it appears Ukraine's strategy against Moscow's energy interests is working.

Russia's refinery output is down, export delays are mounting, and today, a vital Russian oil port was temporarily knocked offline.

All right, coming up next, President Trump evaluates updated strike options inside Venezuela as the Pentagon announces a new mission in the Caribbean dubbed Operation Southern Spear.

I'll be right back.

Hey, Mike Baker here.

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