Kyiv and multiple locations across Ukraine were subjected to intense aerial attacks on Thursday, resulting in significant casualties and damage. Ukrainian emergency services report at least 15 fatalities and 38 injuries in the capital city alone.
The attacks included a strike on a building housing a European Union representation office. EU officials confirmed that no staff members were harmed, but the building sustained damage. European Council President António Costa expressed distress, stating his thoughts were with the Ukrainian victims and EU staff, emphasizing the EU would not be intimidated.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen strongly condemned the attack on the EU office, asserting it demonstrated Russia’s willingness to escalate its terror tactics against Ukraine, indiscriminately targeting civilians – including women and children – and now directly impacting the European Union. She argued the attacks underscore the necessity for continued and intensified pressure and sanctions against Russia.
A British Council facility in Kyiv was also reportedly struck, prompting strong criticism from the United Kingdom. British Labour Party leader Keir Starmer condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of killing children and civilians and undermining hopes for peace, calling for an end to the violence.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko announced Friday will be observed as a day of mourning, with flags to be flown at half-mast on all municipal buildings and a recommendation extended to state and private institutions. All entertainment events within the city have been cancelled for the day.
Ukrainian officials claim Russia launched approximately 600 drones, missiles and cruise missiles against targets throughout the country overnight. Simultaneously, Ukraine conducted retaliatory strikes within Russian territory, reportedly targeting infrastructure within the oil and gas industry, including oil refineries.
