Kyiv: 22 Dead, Including Four Children, in Russian Missile Strike on Kyiv Residential Building
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Friday confirmed that 22 people, including four children, were killed when Russian missiles hit a residential building in Kyiv’s Darnytskyi district on Wednesday night.
In a post on X, Zelenskyy cited Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Ihor Klymenko, stating that rescue operations at the site have concluded and efforts are ongoing to clear the debris.
“According to Minister Ihor Klymenko, rescue operations at the site of the Russian strike have been completed, and work continues to clear the destroyed structures. At this site alone, 22 people were killed, including four children. The youngest girl was not even three years old. My condolences to the families and loved ones of those lost,” Zelenskyy said.
He added that a total of 23 people were killed and 53 others injured across Kyiv during the strike, with the fate of eight still unknown.
“In total, that night, 23 people were killed in Kyiv. Eight remain unaccounted for, and 53 others were injured. All have received necessary assistance. I am grateful to the first responders, police officers, doctors, nurses, and municipal and emergency services involved,” Zelenskyy said.
The President called on the international community to hold Russia accountable, accusing Moscow of relying on military force rather than diplomacy.
“Russia must be held accountable for this strike, as for every attack against our state and our people. When Russia chooses ballistics over diplomacy, modernizes ‘shaheds’ for killing, and deepens cooperation with actors like North Korea, the world must respond,” he said.
Zelenskyy stressed the need for strong sanctions and international pressure on Russia.
“Strong sanctions, strong pressure, and decisive steps are necessary so that these murderers feel no impunity. Russia only understands strength, and it is time to show it. The United States, Europe, and G20 countries have this strength,” he added.
The missile strike also damaged the European Union delegation office, prompting European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to urge Russian President Vladimir Putin to return to negotiations. She emphasized Europe’s continued support for Ukraine, providing security guarantees and defense assistance to secure a “just and lasting peace.”
In a post on X, she wrote: “Just spoke with President @ZelenskyyUa, then @POTUS Donald Trump, following the massive strike on Kyiv which also hit our EU offices. Putin must come to the negotiating table. We must secure a just and lasting peace for Ukraine with firm and credible security guarantees that will turn the country into a steel porcupine. Europe will fully play its part.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that while President Donald Trump was “not happy” about the strikes, he was “not surprised.” She added that ending the war requires the commitment of both Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Zelenskyy.
