Russian Missile Attack Kills 14 in Chernihiv, Ukraine
In a devastating attack, 14 people were killed in the city of Chernihiv in northern Ukraine after a Russian missile strike, as confirmed by Ukrainian officials.
The interior minister of Ukraine reported that over 60 individuals were injured in the assault, which targeted an eight-story building in a heavily populated area.
Officials stated that three missiles hit close to the city center, causing widespread destruction.
This attack occurred shortly after reports emerged of a Ukrainian strike on a Russian military airfield in Crimea, which is currently under Russian occupation.
While details are still being confirmed, videos shared on local social media channels showed a fire at the airfield in Dzhankoy, northern Crimea.
The acting mayor of Chernihiv, Oleksandr Lomako, revealed that one building bore the brunt of the missile strike, with several floors sustaining damage. The presidential office in Kyiv disclosed that four other high-rise buildings, a hospital, numerous cars, and an educational institution were also impacted by the attack.
Among the casualties were two children, as stated by Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko, who added that rescue operations were ongoing to locate any additional victims trapped under the rubble.
Footage from the scene depicted residents scrambling for cover as the missiles struck, with officials urging the public to donate blood to assist those in need.
Emergency services are currently conducting search and rescue missions to locate any survivors buried under the debris.
President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the lack of adequate air defense equipment in Ukraine, emphasizing that the Russian strike could have been prevented with better defensive capabilities. He reiterated his plea for support from Western allies.
Chernihiv, located just 100km (60 miles) from the Russian border, has endured significant hardships during the ongoing conflict. The region was previously occupied by Russian forces, and the city itself was besieged for over a month, resulting in extensive destruction and loss of civilian lives.
In a tragic incident in August 2023, a missile attack targeted a theater in Chernihiv, claiming the lives of seven individuals.
During a recent interview on US television, President Zelensky highlighted the vulnerability of Ukraine’s air defenses, citing the destruction of a vital thermal power plant by Russian missiles. He underscored the urgent need for military assistance to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Despite facing obstacles in receiving a $60 billion US aid package, President Zelensky emphasized the importance of global solidarity in supporting Ukraine’s defense against external threats.
He called for a similar level of political will as demonstrated in aiding non-NATO country Israel during times of crisis, urging the international community to stand united in safeguarding Ukraine’s sovereignty. — BBC
