Massive Russian Missile Attack on Kyiv Leaves 12 Dead, 33 Injured

Darwin, August 20 : At least 12 people have been killed and 33 others injured in a massive overnight Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, and surrounding areas. Local authorities confirmed the casualties on Thursday, August 20. The Guardian reported the development.

According to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, Russian missile strikes damaged residential areas and warehouses across the capital. Several residential buildings, as well as a medical facility and an educational institution, were also damaged in the attacks.

A children’s hospital in Kyiv’s western Solomianskyi district was also hit. The strikes shattered the hospital’s windows and set several nearby vehicles on fire. At least two residential buildings in the area were also reportedly struck by missiles.

A series of explosions was heard across central Kyiv around midnight on Wednesday local time. The attack began somewhat earlier than the time when Russian missile strikes typically intensify. A second wave of attacks was launched early Thursday morning.

Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia used dozens of ballistic, cruise and hypersonic missiles, along with 168 drones, during the overnight assault. Ukraine also claimed that the attack involved Kinzhal and Zircon hypersonic missiles, Iskander and North Korean-made KN-23 ballistic missiles, as well as Shahed drones.

In the Brovary district of the wider Kyiv region, one person was killed and another injured. Regional Governor Tymur Tkachenko said an industrial facility was damaged and emergency crews were working to contain a fire.

Earlier, Ukraine’s Air Force warned that Russian Kalibr cruise missiles were heading toward Kyiv. The missiles were reportedly approaching the capital after flying over the village of Kaharlyk.

The impact of the attack was also felt beyond Ukraine. Poland’s military command said it had deployed fighter jets and activated air-defence systems to protect its airspace. Authorities took additional precautions, particularly in areas bordering Ukraine.

Missile and drone attacks on Kyiv and surrounding areas have become a regular feature of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Ukraine says the latest assault involved a large-scale deployment of missiles and drones in a single overnight attack.

Source: The Guardian