KYIV: Ukrainian officials on Wednesday reported a significant escalation of hostilities as Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones that killed at least four and injured a dozen others.
The capital, Kyiv, bore the brunt of the attacks, with three reported deaths and numerous injuries.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, describing it as “another massive attack against our country.” The strikes extended beyond Kyiv, targeting regions in the northeast, south, and even the western Lviv region, far from the frontlines.
Commander-in-chief Valery Zaluzhny detailed the breadth of the attack, indicating the use of various air attack methods, including strike UAVs, cruise, ballistic, and anti-aircraft guided missiles. The assault comprised a total of 20 drones and 44 missiles fired by Russia, with Ukrainian forces successfully intercepting a significant portion.
Despite Ukrainian efforts to defend against the attacks, casualties continued to mount, with at least 16 people injured in Kyiv alone, according to city officials. Moreover, fatalities were reported in both Kyiv and the southern Mykolaiv region.
One particularly devastating strike hit an 18-storey residential building in Kyiv’s southern Golosiivskyi district, sparking a fierce blaze and prompting the evacuation of 52 individuals. Emergency responders, including ambulances and fire engines, rushed to the scene to extinguish the flames and assist those affected.
Interior Minister Igor Klymenko expressed concerns about potential casualties buried beneath the rubble, underscoring the gravity of the situation amid the ongoing conflict.
