A deadly missile strike in Kyiv marks the most significant loss of life since last summer, complicating ongoing peace talks.
At Least 9 Killed in Renewed Russian Air Assault on Kyiv
At Least 9 Killed in Renewed Russian Air Assault on Kyiv
Multiple explosions rock the Ukrainian capital amid peace process tensions.
In a harrowing night, Russian forces executed a significant missile and drone offensive against Kyiv, resulting in the deaths of at least nine individuals and injuring more than 60 others, according to Ukrainian officials. This surge of violence represents the most deadly attack on Ukraine's capital since last July. Witnesses reported hearing explosive blasts resonate throughout the night, while rising clouds of smoke became visible as daylight broke. One missile struck a two-story residential structure housing eight apartments, leading rescue teams to search for potential survivors amidst the debris. Nearby, a five-story building sustained heavy damage, with all its windows blown out, as residents were seen outside, checking in with their loved ones.
Emergency service spokesperson Svitlana Vodolaha shared an update around 8:30 a.m., confirming that rescue efforts had succeeded in locating an individual alive amid the rubble. President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that the offensive involved the use of nearly 70 missiles—including ballistic varieties—and 150 attack drones, while Kyiv bore the brunt of the assault.
Zelensky urged global audiences to recognize the true implications of the ongoing violence through a post on social media, also announcing his premature return from South Africa after a meeting with the South African president. This latest strike serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion that began in February 2022. Following a temporary truce proclaimed by Russian President Vladimir Putin during Easter—seen by many as a mere public relations façade—missile attacks resumed, nullifying the fleeting calm.
In conjunction with the armed aggression, American diplomacy appears to be faltering amid escalating tensions. The Biden administration's recent shift in approach reflects a departure from past foreign policy, with officials expressing an intention to withdraw from the peace negotiations. The U.S. has indicated support for a plan favoring Russian territorial gains while offering vague guarantees for Ukraine's security—an arrangement Zelensky has thus far refused to accept. The strain on diplomatic efforts is palpable, particularly following downgraded peace talks in London, spurred by the U.S. decision to abstain from participation.
Emergency service spokesperson Svitlana Vodolaha shared an update around 8:30 a.m., confirming that rescue efforts had succeeded in locating an individual alive amid the rubble. President Volodymyr Zelensky noted that the offensive involved the use of nearly 70 missiles—including ballistic varieties—and 150 attack drones, while Kyiv bore the brunt of the assault.
Zelensky urged global audiences to recognize the true implications of the ongoing violence through a post on social media, also announcing his premature return from South Africa after a meeting with the South African president. This latest strike serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing conflict following Russia's full-scale invasion that began in February 2022. Following a temporary truce proclaimed by Russian President Vladimir Putin during Easter—seen by many as a mere public relations façade—missile attacks resumed, nullifying the fleeting calm.
In conjunction with the armed aggression, American diplomacy appears to be faltering amid escalating tensions. The Biden administration's recent shift in approach reflects a departure from past foreign policy, with officials expressing an intention to withdraw from the peace negotiations. The U.S. has indicated support for a plan favoring Russian territorial gains while offering vague guarantees for Ukraine's security—an arrangement Zelensky has thus far refused to accept. The strain on diplomatic efforts is palpable, particularly following downgraded peace talks in London, spurred by the U.S. decision to abstain from participation.
