Ukraine is reeling from one of the most devastating drone and missile attacks by Russia in recent months. Local authorities reported that at least 18 individuals lost their lives, including a child, and over 100 others sustained injuries due to the strikes on Thursday.
Overview of the Attack
The Ukrainian Air Force detailed that during the 24-hour period leading up to Thursday morning, Russia launched a staggering 659 drones and 44 missiles. Major cities, including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odesa, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia, faced the brunt of these assaults. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned the attacks, labeling them a massive terrorist strike primarily aimed at civilians.
Casualties and Damage
- Casualties:
- 18 people killed, including one 12-year-old boy.
- 118 individuals wounded across various regions.
- Significant incidents:
- Four fatalities and 48 injuries reported in Kyiv, with a residential building severely damaged.
- Eight deaths occurred in Odesa, where a drone first struck a building, followed by a ballistic missile.
- In Dnipro, three persons were killed and 34 injured.
- One casualty confirmed in Zaporizhzhia.
In Kyiv, a company CEO remarked on the close proximity of the strike to a construction site, which led to injuries among six workers, two of whom are in critical condition. Video footage from Odesa showed the chaos as emergency teams transported victims amid a raging fire.
Government Reactions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded strongly to the attacks, asserting that they undermine any prospect for easing global sanctions against Russia. He stated that the night’s events confirmed Russia’s relentless pursuit of war.
Zelensky was in Rome during the attacks, discussing Ukraine’s security cooperation with Italian leaders. He briefed Italian President Sergio Mattarella on regional agreements and spoke with Italy’s Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto.
International Implications
This wave of violence follows a brief ceasefire declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin over the Orthodox Easter holiday. The temporary truce had briefly raised hopes for a reduction in hostilities.
As condemnation grows, Ukraine emphasizes that such attacks must not become normalized. Officials insist that these acts are war crimes that require accountability.
