Russia Launches Major Missile Attack on Kyiv and Other Ukrainian Cities

Five-Hour Assault on Ukrainian Cities

Russia conducted one of its largest ballistic missile attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, deploying approximately 40 Iskander-M and hypersonic Zircon missiles over a five-hour period. The attack began just after midnight with the first impacts, followed by subsequent explosions that continued for hours.

Impact in Kyiv

The missile strikes caused significant damage to buildings across Kyiv, including fires in several areas and at least one building collapse due to blast waves. According to city officials, one person was killed, and seven others were injured. A three-storey building caught fire in the central Shevchenkivskyi district, leading rescuers to recover a body from the rubble.

Attack on Ukrainian Cargo Ship

In addition to the strikes on Kyiv, Ukraine reported that a Russian missile attack had hit a Turkish-owned cargo ship near Odesa. The Golden Leo, which flew the flag of Guinea-Bissau and was carrying grain, was struck by three cruise missiles as it left the combat zone. Ukrainian officials stated that six crew members were confirmed dead, while four more remained missing.

Continued Russian Attacks

The attacks continued throughout Sunday with reports of missiles hitting postal facilities in Kharkiv and cities like Kherson and Sumy. The Ukrainian military claimed to have shot down 18 missiles during the Kyiv assault, though 108 out of 125 drones were also brought down.

Rescue Efforts and Damage Control

Emergency services in Kyiv faced numerous challenges as they responded to the explosions. In one incident, a man named Vlad recounted how he was hit by debris when his balcony door was blown off during an explosion. Despite these setbacks, rescuers managed to save several individuals from burning homes and apartments.

Ukraine's Response

In response to the Russian attacks, Ukraine targeted e-commerce warehouses in Moscow and Tambov regions with attack drones, resulting in significant fires and casualties. President Zelenskyy highlighted the ongoing need for anti-ballistic defenses amid the mounting pressure from Russia’s relentless missile campaign.

Source: The Guardian