At least 15 people were killed in a new barrage of Russian missiles that hit Kyiv during the night. Nearly 100 others were injured, adding this to one of the most cruel bombardments on the Ukrainian capital since the war started. This massive attack with drones and missiles focused on apartment buildings, causing extensive damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced the strike as “pure terrorism,” demanding a concerted response from the globe.
Like so many of the terrorist attacks in Europe, this attack occurred late at night. Ukrainian officials have dubbed it the largest coordinated drone and missile strike ever on the capital. Though early reports listed the death toll at 14, as rescue teams worked to sift through the rubble of flattened apartment buildings, the death toll rose to a minimum of 15 people.
Ukraine Kyiv Mayor Vitaly Klitschko and Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko stood shoulder-to-shoulder in Kyiv to demonstrate their unity. They visited the location of an airstrike that struck a nine-story apartment complex. The impact of the strikes sent shockwaves through the city, as residents grappled with the loss and destruction brought on by the assault.
Russia’s military has claimed responsibility for Friday’s strike. They have claimed that they conducted specific “high-precision” strikes against “military-industrial” facilities around Kyiv. The damage wreaked on civilian infrastructure has triggered protests across the international community and high-level Ukrainian leaders.
“Such attacks are pure terrorism.” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
President Zelenskyy underscored the need for a strong global response to Russia’s aggression. He said that the world must show clear determination and unity in fighting terrorism. He stated, “The whole world, the United States, and Europe must finally respond as a civilized society responds to terrorists.”
The humanitarian consequences of the attack have been devastating, with hospitals flooded with the wounded. Dozens of victims sustained life-altering injuries as we’re just starting to understand the scale of damage recreational shooting has caused to neighborhoods where it’s accepted. Eyewitnesses described heartbreaking scenes, destruction and despair from families still searching for their loved ones after the strikes.
The European Union today finds itself under tremendous pressure to respond to the still-evolving conflict and its consequences. Legislative plans to phase out Russian fossil fuels by 2027 are stuck in the EU Parliament, with Hungary and Slovakia looking to (for considerable compensation) shoot down the plan. Together, these developments underscore the sweeping geopolitical impact of the war in Ukraine. Countries around the world are working hard to navigate their economic self-interests with pressing humanitarian needs.
In recent months, Zelenskyy has repeatedly called on European leaders to adopt a stronger response to Russia’s military aggression. He rejects the idea that it’s okay for larger states to look the other way when their colleagues engage in violence. We need to make them accountable and force them to do something.
“It is wrong when the powerful of this world turn a blind eye to it. We are in contact with all partners at every possible level to ensure an appropriate response. It is the terrorists who must feel the pain, not innocent peaceful people.” – Volodymyr Zelenskyy
With the war changing by the hour, Ukrainian officials are pleading with allies to step up their support. They argue that bold actions must be taken to ensure the safety of civilians and prevent future acts of aggression by Russia.