Russian Missile Attacks Hit Kyiv, Causing Casualties and Damage

Early Thursday morning, a Russian missile attack claimed at least 12 lives in Kyiv. Explosions echoed through the capital throughout the night. Ukraine’s Emergency Service reports at least 33 individuals suffered injuries due to the strikes.

The missiles impacted 12 locations across Kyiv’s Darnytskyi, Sviatoshynskyi, and Solomianskyi districts. Residential buildings, a medical facility, and an educational institution incurred damage. Emergency responders worked to rescue individuals trapped under debris.

In the Solomianskyi district, a 9-story residential building saw its top floors destroyed. Fires sparked across other floors. Some residents faced entrapment in two residential buildings and a school shelter.

A local resident, Larysa Bondaruk, recounted the devastation. Holding her rescued cat, Chanel, she shared that her neighbor’s grandson perished beneath the rubble. Her apartment suffered substantial damage.

Bondaruk described the experience: “A rocket hit the roof. The noise was deafening. Debris and doors were blown out quickly. Smoke and fire rose in towering columns. Screams and cries filled the air. Rescue teams acted swiftly and professionally, aiding those in need.”

Russia has increased the frequency of ballistic missile strikes to exploit Kyiv’s limited air defense capabilities. The capital’s arsenal of interceptive systems remains restricted, and its U.S.-provided Patriot missiles supplies are stretched thin.

Though earlier allowed, the production licenses for Patriot systems were ultimately revoked by President Donald Trump.

Ukraine continues its counter-offensive with long-range attacks targeting Russian military depots and facilities. This strategy aims to weaken Russia’s ability to press its assault on Ukrainian cities.