KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has taken a tragic turn as a Russian missile strike in the central city of Kryvyi Rih resulted in a rising death toll of 18, including nine children, according to regional governor Serhii Lysak, who reported the grim figures on Saturday. This devastating attack occurred on Friday and has left 61 individuals injured, with victims ranging from a 3-month-old baby to elderly residents. As of the latest updates, 40 of the injured remain hospitalized, including two children in critical condition and 17 others in serious condition.
In response to the strike, Oleksandr Vilkul, head of the city’s defense council, declared, "There can never be forgiveness for this. Eternal memory to the victims." Kryvyi Rih holds particular significance as it is the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which adds a poignant layer to the tragedy impacting the local community.
On Telegram, President Zelenskyy described the missile strike as targeting an area adjacent to residential buildings, affecting a playground and ordinary streets. The attack inflicted damage on approximately 20 apartment buildings, over 30 vehicles, an educational institution, and a restaurant in the vicinity. The Russian Defense Ministry, in a contrasting narrative, claimed that the strike was a high-precision missile attack aimed at a restaurant where a meeting involving military personnel and Western instructors was allegedly taking place. Their assertion claimed to have resulted in the deaths of 85 military personnel and foreign officers, as well as the destruction of 20 vehicles, although these claims have not been substantiated or verified independently. The Ukrainian General Staff has categorically rejected these assertions.
Adding to the string of assaults, a subsequent drone strike on Kryvyi Rih resulted in the death of one woman and injuries to seven others. In light of these repeated strikes, President Zelenskyy has attributed Russia's persistent military actions to a refusal to seek peace, stating, "Every missile, every drone strike proves Russia wants only war." He has called upon Ukraine’s allies to intensify pressure on Moscow and bolster Ukraine's air defense systems.
President Zelenskyy emphasized the compelling need for a concerted global effort, asserting, "The United States, Europe, and the rest of the world have enough power to make Russia abandon terror and war." The ongoing violence in Ukraine, particularly the civilian casualties resulting from Russian military operations, underscores the dire situation faced by the nation as it seeks both safety for its citizens and an end to the conflict.
The series of attacks, marked by high civilian casualties, highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and fuels the urgency for international intervention and support. As the situation develops, the global community remains watchful, urging accountability and peace in the region.
