A Russian drone strike hit a busy shopping center in the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih. Officials reported that at least 14 people were killed and 121 others were injured including 22 children.
Targeting the President’s hometown
The attack took place in the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Ukrainian leaders quickly condemned the daytime bombing which caused massive damage and set fire to the crowded building.
Rescue teams immediately rushed to the area to clear destroyed building materials and search for people trapped under the wreckage.
A dangerous double-tap strategy
President Zelenskyy explained that Russia carried out a “double-tap” attack. In this tactic, a first wave of drones hits a location and a second wave strikes shortly after to target emergency workers arriving at the scene.
Calling the action “cynical and despicable,” Zelenskyy stated on social media that “attacks like these are nothing less than terrorist acts.”
Heavy fire and rising injuries
Local official Oleksandr Vilkul confirmed that rescuers worked continuously as “the rubble is being cleared” to save survivors. Authorities reported that 29 injured people remained in serious condition.
Part of larger aerial campaign
This strike came amid a heavy week of Russian missile and drone attacks across Ukrainian cities. Ukrainian forces continue to ask international partners for better defense systems to stop ongoing strikes
