Russian Missile Barrage on Ukraine Kills Nearly 36, Hits
Children's Hospital
Russia launched a massive missile attack across multiple
Ukrainian cities on Monday, killing at least 35 people and damaging a
children's hospital in Kyiv. This rare daytime assault occurred as President
Volodymyr Zelenskyy prepared to travel to Warsaw and then to a NATO summit in
Washington.
Explosions were reported by EAFP journalists, with black
smoke rising from central Kyiv. Photos showed people digging through rubble and
medical staff in blood-stained scrubs at the damaged children's hospital.
President Zelenskyy condemned the attack, highlighting that 40 missiles
targeted major civilian hubs, including Kyiv, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rig, Sloviansk,
and Kramatorsk.
The Ukrainian Air Force identified Russian hypersonic
Kinzhal missiles among those used. These missiles, which are highly advanced
and difficult to intercept, have been sporadically deployed by Russia due to
their limited supply.
Zelenskyy reported that many were trapped under the rubble
of the Okhmatdyt Children's Hospital. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said 66
people were injured in the capital, with 44 hospitalized.
Russian forces have repeatedly targeted Kyiv since the
invasion began in February 2022. The Security Services of Ukraine (SBU) stated
that a KH-101 strategic cruise missile hit the children's hospital. Senior
advisor Andriy Yermak claimed the missile contained microelectronics from NATO
countries.
Russia admitted to the strike but denied targeting civilian
infrastructure, asserting it hit military sites. The Ukrainian air force shot
down 30 of the 38 missiles launched. The attack also severely impacted
Zelenskyy's hometown, Kryvyi Rih, killing at least 10 and injuring over 30.
International condemnation followed, with UN humanitarian
coordinator for Ukraine Denise Brown denouncing the attacks on children. In
response, Zelenskyy urged allies to provide more air defense systems to
Ukraine. He emphasized that Russia must be held accountable for its actions,
underscoring the ongoing need for international support.
