Russia’s Second Missile Attack on Kyiv Injures Dozens and Damages Infrastructure
Russia launched its second missile assault on Kyiv this week, resulting in injuries to at least 53 people and causing significant damage to homes and a children’s hospital. Ukrainian officials reported the incident as President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed for more assistance from the United States. This article provides an overview of the attack, the extent of the damage, and the response from Ukrainian authorities.
Missile Attack Causes Destruction and Injuries in Kyiv
At least 53 people were injured in the missile attack, including six children, according to Ukraine’s national police.
The assault resulted in damaged residential apartment blocks, blown-out windows, and destroyed parked cars.
Falling debris caused injuries and destruction in four districts along the Dnipro River in Kyiv.
The city’s military administration reported that 35 buildings were damaged during the attack.
Ukraine’s Air Defense Systems Successfully Intercept Missiles
Ukraine’s Air Force announced that all ten ballistic missiles aimed at the capital were downed by the country’s air defense systems.
The projectiles were identified as Iskander-M ballistic missiles and S-400s, known for their high speed and air defense capabilities.
The effectiveness of Western-supplied air defense systems and Ukrainian soldiers’ skills in operating them were praised by Andriy Yermak, the Ukrainian president’s chief of staff.
Damage to Infrastructure and Evacuations
Debris from the missile attack caused significant damage to a children’s hospital in Kyiv’s Dniprovskyi district, but initial assessments indicated no casualties.
Several residential buildings in the Dniprovskyi district were also hit by debris, with damage to windows and entrances.
The district’s water supply was affected by the attack.
Seventeen people, including seven children, were evacuated from a residential building in the Dniprovskyi district due to debris hitting the building and nearby cars, causing a fire.
International Response and Political Implications
President Zelensky sought additional military aid for Ukraine during his visit to Washington, D.C., as he pleaded for more support from the United States.
President Biden warned Republicans that failing to provide additional military aid would be a “Christmas gift” to Russia.
There was no immediate comment from Russia regarding the missile attack on Kyiv.
Both Moscow and Kyiv deny targeting civilians in the ongoing conflict that began in February 2022.
Ukraine’s Air Force Downs Russian-Launched Attack Drones
In addition to intercepting the ballistic missiles, Ukraine’s air force successfully shot down all ten Russian-launched attack drones over the Odesa region in southern Ukraine.
Conclusion:
Russia’s second missile attack on Kyiv resulted in injuries to dozens of people and significant damage to infrastructure. Ukrainian air defense systems successfully intercepted the ballistic missiles, showcasing the effectiveness of Western-supplied weapons. The incident highlights the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with President Zelensky seeking increased military aid from the United States. Both countries deny targeting civilians in the war that has been ongoing for nearly 22 months.
