Russian forces targeted a building housing Ukraine’s government for the first time since the war began, destroying parts of the building and causing two fatalities with dozens injured.
First Instance of Attack on Government Building
Russia has, for the first time since the war began, directly targeted a building housing Ukraine’s government – specifically, its higher floors were damaged in an attack. Rescue teams are working to address the incident caused by overnight Russian missile and drone strikes, which also affected civilian infrastructure in Kyiv, Krivoy Rog, the Dnieper, Kremenchug, and Odessa. Ukrainian officials state that residential buildings, government offices, and civilian infrastructure were deliberately targeted.
Ukrainian Prime Minister’s Response
In response to the attacks, Ukrainian Prime Minister Julia Svyrydenko stated, “For the first time, a building of the Ukrainian government has sustained direct damage from an enemy attack. It is impossible to restore lost lives.”
Largest Number of Drones Used in Attacks
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia launched 805 drones and 13 missiles overnight, with Ukrainian defensive units shooting down 751 drones and four missiles. This represents the largest number of drones Russia has used in attacks on the country since the war began in February 2022.
Ukrainian Counterattack
In retaliation for Russian actions, Ukraine targeted the “Friendship” pipeline, damaging it significantly.
