Kyiv and other locations across Ukraine were subjected to a large-scale barrage of attacks on Thursday, involving drones, missiles and cruise missiles. Ukrainian emergency services report at least 15 fatalities in Kyiv, alongside 38 reported injuries.
Among the targets struck was a building housing a representation of the European Union. EU officials confirmed no staff members were harmed. EU Council President António Costa expressed dismay, stating via social media that his thoughts were with the Ukrainian victims and EU representation staff whose building sustained damage in what he described as a targeted Russian attack. He affirmed the EU would not be intimidated.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen characterized the attack on the EU building as evidence of Russia’s willingness to escalate tactics in its attempts to terrorize Ukraine. She accused the Kremlin of indiscriminately killing civilians – men, women and children – and of directly targeting the European Union. Von der Leyen asserted that the strike underscored the need for sustained and intensified pressure on Russia, including expanded sanctions.
A facility belonging to the British Council in Kyiv was also impacted during the attacks, drawing strong condemnation from the United Kingdom. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the attacks demonstrated Russian President Vladimir Putin’s targeting of civilians and children and his undermining of peace efforts, calling for an end to the bloodshed.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko announced that Friday would be declared a day of mourning in the city. All municipal buildings will fly flags at half-mast and both state and private institutions are encouraged to follow suit. Furthermore, all entertainment events within the city have been cancelled for the day.
Ukrainian sources indicate that approximately 600 drones, missiles and cruise missiles were launched against targets nationwide during the overnight and morning hours. Simultaneously, Ukrainian forces have reportedly conducted attacks on Russian territory, including targeting facilities within Russia’s oil and gas industry, with reports of strikes on oil refineries.