At least 15 people were killed in deadly Russian missile strikes targeting Kyiv and several Ukrainian cities, according to a Reuters report. Read the full story with details of the attacks, damage, and international reaction.
Deadly Russian Strikes Rock Ukraine: 15 Confirmed Dead
In a fresh wave of attacks, Russia launched deadly missile strikes on Kyiv and several major Ukrainian cities, killing at least 15 people and injuring dozens more. According to a Reuters report, the coordinated assault hit residential buildings, power infrastructure, and public spaces early in the morning, causing widespread devastation.
Kyiv and Other Cities Under Fire
The Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, witnessed several loud explosions just after dawn, with emergency services rushing to extinguish fires and rescue trapped civilians. Local authorities confirmed at least eight deaths in Kyiv alone, with several high-rise buildings severely damaged.
Other affected cities include:
- Dnipro – where a missile struck a residential complex, killing three
- Kharkiv – experienced power outages after strikes on energy facilities
- Lviv and Zaporizhzhia – also reported missile impacts but fewer casualties
Civilians Targeted Amid Escalation
Ukrainian officials condemned the strikes as targeted attacks on civilians, citing the lack of military installations near the impact zones. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the attacks a “barbaric escalation” and urged the international community to respond with tougher sanctions on Russia.
International Response and Condemnation
The United Nations and European Union quickly condemned the attacks. The U.S. State Department expressed “deep concern” and reiterated support for Ukraine, pledging additional military aid and air defense systems.
Several human rights groups have raised alarms, calling the strikes possible violations of international humanitarian law.
Why These Attacks Matter Now
This latest escalation comes as Ukraine continues to gain ground in some eastern regions. Analysts believe the strikes may be an attempt by Russia to:
- Undermine civilian morale
- Disrupt Ukraine’s energy supply
- Pressure Kyiv during ongoing international negotiations
The attacks also coincide with major diplomatic visits from European leaders to Ukraine, which some speculate may have prompted the timing of the missile barrage.
