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Did a missile strike overshadow Africa's peace mission?
Summary
A look back at 16 June 2023, when a Russian missile attack interrupted a visit to Ukraine by African officials.
What did a peace mission from Africa find when it reached Ukraine? On 16 June 2023, a visit by African officials was interrupted by a Russian missile attack, according to the Ukrainian Air Force.
The air force said it shot down six Kinzhal ballistic missiles, six Kalibr missiles and two reconnaissance drones. The attack came while the delegation was in the country on its peace mission.
The days before
The strike followed a bleak run of events. On 10 June 2023, Russian forces attacked Odesa with drones and missiles, killing three civilians and injuring 27 others.
The same day, Canada's Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, announced a $500 million military aid package for Ukraine, including 288 AIM-7 missiles. He also announced $10 million in humanitarian aid for victims of the Kakhovka dam collapse.
That collapse had occurred in the early hours of 6 June 2023, when the dam was breached and flooding spread along the lower Dnieper in Kherson Oblast. The dam was under Russian military control. Ukraine blamed Russia's 205th Separate Guards Motor Rifle Brigade, and Russian authorities denied the accusations. Many experts later concluded that Russian forces had likely blown up a segment of the dam to hinder Ukraine's planned counter-offensive.
What the day showed
Within ten days, Ukraine faced a flooded river region, an attack on Odesa and a missile barrage during a diplomatic visit. The peace mission arrived as missiles were still being fired at the country it had come to visit.
