Russia conducted a significant attack using drones and ballistic missiles, resulting in at least four fatalities in Ukraine. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the assault involved over 400 drones alongside 44 missiles.
Emergency services reported around 50 people injured throughout the country, particularly in the capital, Kiev.
“Russia doesn’t change its approach—another large-scale strike on urban life. They targeted nearly every area in Ukraine—Volyn, Lviv, Ternopil, Kiev, Sumy, Poltava, Khmelnytskyi, Cherkasy, and Chernihiv. Some missiles and drones were intercepted, and we’re grateful to our forces for their defense, though not everything was stopped,” Zelensky shared.
“In total, over 400 drones and more than 40 missiles were deployed in today’s offensive. There are reports of 49 injuries, and sadly, at least three confirmed deaths. Help will be provided,” he continued.
Zelensky once again urged Western leaders to apply pressure on Russia, emphasizing the need for accountability from the aggressors.
“If someone is letting the war persist without acting to apply pressure, it is complicity. We must respond decisively,” he stated.
The president’s post included images and videos showing first responders following the attacks.
The recent strikes were reportedly a reaction to an unexpected Ukrainian drone attack on Russian strategic bombers. Ukrainian drones carrying bombs had also been transported into Russian territory and aimed at high-value military assets.
The Russian Ministry of Defense asserted that they employed “long-range precision weapons” to hit Ukrainian military installations, including armories and drone production sites.
“Our military is responding daily to actions from Ukraine,” said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Friday.
Despite Russian assertions, many residential buildings suffered significant damage during the strike, causing extensive power outages in parts of Kiev.
A 14-year-old resident of Kiev, Vitalina Vasylchenko, recounted her harrowing experience when one of the drones exploded nearby. She described seeking shelter in a parking garage.
“After hearing a loud noise, my dad shielded me with his hand right before a huge explosion. My life flashed before my eyes. I thought it was the end and started feeling panic attacks. I couldn’t believe I was still alive,” she shared.
“Russia behaves like a terrorist, systematically attacking private infrastructure,” remarked Dmytro Lubinets, the head of human rights in Ukraine. “The international community must respond firmly, taking decisive actions to condemn these aggressors.”
