KYIV: At least three people lost their lives in Kyiv in the early hours of Saturday, as Russia unleashed a series of overnight air strikes on Ukraine, according to Ukrainian officials. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko revealed that missiles targeted multiple regions across the country, resulting in casualties and widespread damage. The assault included a high-rise building in the capital, which was struck, claiming the lives of three individuals and leaving eight others wounded.
Minister Klymenko expressed his condemnation of the attacks, stating on the Telegram messaging app, “This is the style of terrorists. The style of Russia.” Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military reported that their air defenses successfully intercepted and destroyed 41 out of the 51 cruise missiles launched by Russia, along with two drones.
Providing further insight into the situation, Serhiy Popko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, explained that the damage inflicted on the high-rise building was caused by fragments from a downed missile. Popko also confirmed that over 20 missiles were intercepted in the vicinity of the city. Emergency workers immediately commenced rescue operations at the site, as debris covered the area, revealing a sizable hole on one side of the building. Mayor Vitalii Klitschko, via Telegram, expressed concerns that more individuals might be trapped beneath the rubble.
In the southeastern region of Dnipropetrovsk, officials reported eight casualties, including two children, and the destruction of several buildings as a result of the attacks. Governor Serhiy Lysak stated that air defenses successfully neutralized nine missiles and three drones, but not before residential buildings in the regional capital, Dnipro, and an undisclosed infrastructure facility were struck.
Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, also came under fire as two Russian missiles targeted the area. One missile hit an industrial zone, while the other damaged a gas line. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, according to Governor Oleh Synehubov. Although explosions were reported in various other cities, there is no immediate information on the extent of casualties or damage caused.
The escalation of Russia’s air strikes on Ukraine began in May, coinciding with Kyiv’s military preparations for a counteroffensive to regain control over Russian-occupied territories in the east and south of the country. As the situation continues to unfold, tensions between the two nations remain high, with Ukraine resolute in its determination to protect its sovereignty.
