KYIV: There are at least 24 people were killed and more than 100 others injured after Russia launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, striking residential areas in one of the deadliest assaults in recent days, Ukrainian authorities said on Monday.
The attack took place just one day before a scheduled NATO summit, raising fresh concerns over the continuing escalation of the conflict. A multi-storey residential building in Kyiv’s Podilskyi district suffered extensive damage after being hit during the assault.
The large section of the building collapsed, leaving emergency responders searching through the debris for survivors.
News agencies reported that more than ten powerful explosions were heard across the Ukrainian capital during the ballistic missile attack.
In this regard, bright flashes illuminated the night sky as air defence systems attempted to intercept incoming missiles and drones.
Officials said that 16 people were killed in Kyiv, while another eight lost their lives in the nearby town of Vyshneve, bringing the total death toll to at least 24. More than 100 people were also reported injured, with many receiving treatment in hospitals.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, describing it as a brutal assault on civilians.
He said Russia’s military strategy had not changed and accused Moscow of continuing efforts to inflict maximum harm on the Ukrainian population.
Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainian air defence forces successfully intercepted several drones and cruise missiles during the attack. However, he acknowledged that the country continues to face challenges in defending against ballistic missiles due to limited air defence capabilities.
He urged NATO member states to strengthen Ukraine’s air defence by providing additional advanced defence systems without delay.
The Ukrainian president also expressed hope that the upcoming NATO summit would produce important decisions aimed at reinforcing Ukraine’s air defence network and enhancing military support.
Meanwhile, Mark Rutte said allied nations and partner countries must ensure that Ukraine receives all necessary assistance to meet its defence requirements.
He stressed the importance of continued international support as Ukraine faces ongoing security challenges.
