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The number of fatalities from a Russian missile attack in Kryvyi Rih, a central Ukrainian city, has increased to 18, including nine children, as reported by regional governor Serhii Lysak on Saturday.
In addition, 61 individuals sustained injuries during the assault on Friday, with victims ranging from a three-month-old infant to elderly citizens. Currently, 40 individuals remain hospitalized, including two children in critical condition and 17 others in serious condition.
Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of the city’s defense council, stated that there can be no forgiveness for this act, and he paid tribute to the victims with the phrase “Eternal memory.”
Kryvyi Rih is the birthplace of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy noted on Telegram that the missile struck an area adjacent to residential buildings, impacting a playground and nearby streets. Local officials reported that the attack caused damage to approximately 20 apartment complexes, over 30 vehicles, an educational facility, and a restaurant.
The Russian Defence Ministry asserted on Friday that it conducted a precise missile strike targeting a restaurant where a meeting involving unit commanders and Western instructors was occurring.
According to Russian military claims, the strike resulted in the deaths of 85 military personnel and foreign officers, as well as the destruction of 20 vehicles. These assertions have not been independently verified, and the Ukrainian General Staff has dismissed them.
Additionally, a subsequent drone strike in Kryvyi Rih resulted in the death of one woman and injuries to seven others.
Zelenskyy attributed the ongoing attacks to Russia’s refusal to seek a resolution to the conflict, stating, “Each missile and every drone strike demonstrates Russia’s sole desire for war.” He called on Ukraine’s allies to intensify their pressure on Moscow and enhance Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
He emphasized that the United States, Europe, and the global community possess sufficient influence to compel Russia to renounce its acts of terror and warfare.
