KYIV, January 9, 2024 – A Russian missile and drone barrage struck Kyiv Thursday night, leaving four people dead and 13 injured, including a medical professional, according to officials.
Deadly Strikes Rock Kyiv Amid Ongoing Conflict
Russian forces targeted the Ukrainian capital with a combination of missiles and drones, resulting in civilian casualties and raising further concerns about the escalating conflict.
The attacks unfolded Thursday evening, sending shockwaves through the city. The immediate aftermath saw emergency services scrambling to respond to multiple impact sites. The strikes underscore the continued threat faced by Ukrainian civilians despite ongoing international efforts to de-escalate the situation.
Did you know? – Kyiv has been a frequent target of Russian attacks since the beginning of the invasion in February 2022, with air defense systems working to intercept incoming projectiles.
Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko confirmed the tragic loss of life and injuries in a statement released shortly after the attacks. The details of the strikes are still emerging,but initial reports indicate a coordinated assault utilizing both missile and drone technology. According to Ukrainian military officials, Russia launched over 35 drones and missiles, with the majority reportedly intercepted by air defense systems. The targeted areas included residential buildings and critical infrastructure, causing widespread damage and disrupting essential services.
The motivation behind the intensified attacks appears to be an attempt to demoralize the Ukrainian population and disrupt the country’s war effort as the conflict approaches its second year. Russia has not officially commented on the specific strikes, but has consistently denied targeting civilians, a claim widely refuted by international observers and documented evidence. The injured, including the medical professional, are receiving treatment at Kyiv hospitals, and authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage.
As of Friday morning, Ukrainian forces have largely contained the fires sparked by the attacks, and efforts are underway to restore power and water to affected areas. The examination into the incident is ongoing, and Ukrainian authorities are collecting evidence to document potential war crimes. The attacks ended with Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepting a meaningful portion of the incoming projectiles, minimizing further casualties and damage.
The news is being updated.
