A tragic missile attack carried out by Russia has left 14 people dead in the city of Chernihiv in northern Ukraine, as reported by Ukrainian officials. The attack also resulted in over 60 individuals sustaining injuries, after three missiles struck an eight-storey building in a densely populated area of the city.
According to Ukraine’s interior minister, the devastating attack took place close to the city center, causing significant damage to multiple buildings and structures. Acting mayor Oleksandr Lomako shared that one building bore the brunt of the missile strike, resulting in severe damage to several floors. Additionally, the presidential office in Kyiv confirmed that four high-rise buildings, a hospital, numerous cars, and a higher education institution were all affected by the attack.
Tragically, two children were among the casualties of the attack in Chernihiv. Emergency services and police are currently conducting search and rescue operations in the rubble to locate any additional victims. Distressing videos from the scene captured residents fleeing for cover as the missiles struck, prompting an urgent appeal for blood donations from officials.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the Russian strike, emphasizing that it could have been prevented if Ukraine had access to sufficient air defense equipment. He reiterated calls for support from Western allies in the wake of the devastating attack. Chernihiv, located just 100km from the Russian border, has faced hardship in the past due to its proximity to conflict zones.
This recent attack in Chernihiv comes after reports of a Ukrainian strike on a Russian military airfield in occupied Crimea, although details are yet to be confirmed. President Zelensky highlighted the urgent need for military aid, citing the destruction of a key thermal power plant supplying Kyiv as a result of declining air defense capabilities.
As Ukraine continues to face aggression from Russia, the international community must come together to provide essential support and assistance to prevent further loss of life and destruction in the region.
