Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal Affairs confirmed Wednesday that at least 25 people were killed and 73 injured in the strike that hit two nine-story residential buildings. Photos from the scene showed severe damage, with one building left blackened and smoke rising from the area as emergency crews worked to clear the debris and provide aid to those trapped under the rubble.
President Zelenskyy condemned Russia’s attacks, calling for increased pressure through sanctions and military support. He urged for more air defense missiles, additional combat aviation capabilities, and drone production to protect civilian lives. ‘Every brazen attack against ordinary life proves that the pressure on Russia is still insufficient,’ he said, stressing the need for immediate action to prevent such strikes in the future.
Poland’s military response to the strikes was swift, with the Operational Command stating that fighter jets were scrambled and air defenses raised due to the threat of Russian missiles and drones crossing into their airspace. The Polish military described the measures as preventive, emphasizing their commitment to protect both its own territory and NATO allies from potential Russian aerial aggression.
Critics and analysts warn that the scale of the attack may indicate a shift in Russia’s strategy, possibly aiming to disrupt Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and undermine morale. Meanwhile, international reactions continue to focus on the need for increased support to Ukraine, including more advanced weaponry and air defense systems to counter the growing threat of Russian drone and missile attacks.