Massive Attack on Kiev by Russia Results in Casualties
In a considerable escalation of hostilities, Ukraine reported that Russia launched a significant attack on Kiev overnight, with 10 fatalities and at least 38 individuals injured. Ukrainian authorities provided these details on Thursday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that among the dead was a child, a tragic victim of the drone and missile strikes.
“Right now, in Kiev, first responders are addressing the aftermath of these devastating attacks on ordinary residential buildings,” Zelensky noted, sharing his thoughts on social media. “Russia opts for missiles rather than diplomacy. Instead of working towards peace, it chooses violence. This suggests that Russia is not yet concerned about potential repercussions. There seems to be a degree of indifference in parts of the world toward the innocent lives lost, including children, as they search for justification for Putin’s actions,” he added.
In a recent meeting involving Trump, Putin, and Zelensky, this attack marks Russia’s most significant offensive against Ukraine this month.
Zelensky also emphasized the urgent need for “significant new sanctions against Russia for its ongoing aggression.” He remarked, “The deadlines for diplomatic solutions have passed, leading to missed opportunities. Russia needs to be held accountable for each strike, as the war continues to claim lives.”
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that of the total attacks, 563 out of 598 drones and 26 out of 31 missiles were launched by Russia, targeting numerous locations throughout the country. The assaults reportedly struck 13 sites, with debris scattered across 26 areas.
Timur Tokachenko, a leader in Kiev’s administration, described the attacks as typical of Russia’s approach, indicating a combined strike strategy aimed at ordinary residential areas.
Authorities reported substantial damage to numerous buildings, including several high-rise apartments. In the Darnytskyi district, a five-story building was partially destroyed, prompting emergency responders to search for potential survivors amidst the wreckage.
Emergency crews are reportedly managing the aftermath of the attacks across more than 20 sites throughout the city. Fires have also been recorded in surrounding areas.
Antonio Costa, president of the Council of Europe, expressed his alarm about yet another night of deadly missile strikes on Ukraine. He shared his thoughts for the victims and the staff at the European Union’s delegation offices in Ukraine that suffered structural damage due to this intentional Russian aggression, emphasizing the EU’s unwavering commitment to supporting Ukraine.
Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defense stated its air defense systems intercepted 102 Ukrainian drones during the night.
