A massive Russian airstrike overnight on June 17 killed at least 15 people in Kyiv, including a U.S. citizen, and wounded 177 more, according to Ukrainian officials. It was one of the deadliest attacks on the capital in months.
Hundreds of Missiles and Drones Launched
Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia launched 440 drones and 32 missiles. Of these, 402 drones and 26 missiles were intercepted. Despite the defenses, debris and direct hits were reported in over 40 locations, including 10 confirmed strike zones.
Widespread Damage and Ongoing Rescue
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said nearly 150 residential buildings in Kyiv were damaged. Rescue operations are still underway in at least two locations, with people believed to be trapped under rubble. “The work will not stop until everyone is found,” said Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko.
Cluster Munitions and Mourning Declared
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko shared a video showing what appeared to be Russian cluster munitions. He described an entire building entrance collapsing in the Solomianskyi district and declared a day of mourning for the victims.
Nationwide Impact Beyond the Capital
While Kyiv suffered the most, strikes were also reported in Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Chernihiv, Zhytomyr, Kirovohrad, and Mykolaiv. In Odesa, at least two were killed and 18 injured.
Zelenskyy Calls for Global Action
Calling the attacks “pure terrorism,” Zelenskyy demanded stronger international responses. “It is the terrorists who should feel the pain, not normal, peaceful people,” he said. He emphasized the need for the U.S. and Europe to act decisively.
Message Amid G7 Summit
The strike coincided with the G7 summit in Canada, where Ukraine is a key focus. Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of trying to make world leaders “appear weak,” urging strong and unified action in response.
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