KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — In a devastating night of violence, Russia carried out a series of missile and drone strikes on Kyiv, resulting in the deaths of at least seven individuals. The attacks occurred overnight into Monday and were preceded by a warning from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the likelihood of a large-scale assault. In addition to the fatalities, 24 people sustained injuries, according to Tymur Tkachenko, the head of Kyiv's City Military Administration, who shared information through a post on Telegram.
The bombardment caused significant destruction, with a residential building in the Podilskyi district partially collapsing. Various multi-story buildings in the Darnytsia district were also reported to be damaged, and there were fears that individuals could be trapped under the rubble. Tkachenko highlighted the tragedy of the situation, emphasizing that these were homes where people lived and carried out their daily lives.
As the attacks unfolded early Monday, the city was filled with the sound of explosions, prompting civilians to seek refuge in metro stations to avoid the onslaught. The assault involved a combination of ballistic and cruise missiles, in addition to aerial drones. This wave of attacks came in the wake of a previous Russian assault just days earlier, which resulted in at least 31 fatalities in the capital.
President Zelenskyy, who had forewarned the public about the impending attacks, reiterated urgent calls for increased military assistance from Western allies. He specifically urged for an enhancement of Ukraine's air defense capabilities, making a case for the provision of more Patriot missiles. In a post on Telegram late Sunday, Zelenskyy expressed his belief that the failure to replenish air defense resources only serves to embolden Russia, allowing it to continue its nearly four-year-long conflict with Ukraine.
The Ukrainian government has emphasized the critical need for robust support from international partners as they confront ongoing hostilities. With civilian areas bearing the brunt of the attacks, the call for aid has become increasingly urgent. The situation in Kyiv remains tense as residents navigate the destruction and uncertainty brought on by the latest wave of aggression from Russian forces.
