Russia launched drones and missile strikes targeting at least 27 locations across Ukraine’s capital Kyiv early Thursday, killing at least six people, according to city officials. Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, confirmed the casualties that included a six-year-old boy, in a post on Telegram.
“We have 52 wounded individuals, with nearly 30 currently hospitalized, including nine children,” Tkachenko reported. The situation remains dire, as rescue efforts continue.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga described the morning as “horrible.” He stated, “The brutal Russian strikes destroyed entire residential buildings and damaged schools and hospitals. Civilians are injured and killed. There are still people under the rubble.”
Russia Claims Key Capture in the East
In a related development, Russia announced the capture of Chasiv Yar, a town that served as a crucial military hub for Ukrainian forces in eastern Ukraine. The Russian defense ministry declared, “The town was liberated by Russian forces.” If confirmed, this capture represents another significant territorial gain for Russia, which has steadily advanced in the region over recent months.
The fall of Chasiv Yar now opens the door for Russian forces to target remaining civilian strongholds in the eastern Donetsk region. Key cities like Kramatorsk and Sloviansk, which serve as logistical bases for the Ukrainian military, remain home to many civilians who have yet to flee the ongoing conflict.
The Kremlin has prioritized capturing the Donetsk region, asserting that this industrial territory is part of Russia since late 2022.
International Response and Ongoing Conflict
Kyiv has been working tirelessly to repel Russia’s summer offensive, which has made significant advances into areas that largely remained untouched since the invasion began in February 2022. Thursday’s attack followed a recent strike on a military training camp, which resulted in the deaths of at least three Ukrainian soldiers on Tuesday.
In light of these developments, Ukraine’s foreign minister urged the international community to exert maximum pressure on Moscow to end the war. “President Trump has been very generous and patient with Putin, trying to find a solution,” Sybiga stated.
However, he criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, asserting, “He does not care about any attempts to put an end to the killing. He only seeks to destroy and kill.” Sybiga emphasized the need for action, stating, “It’s time to make him feel the pain and consequences of his choices. It’s time to put maximum pressure on Moscow.”
