War Escalates: Russia Rains Ballistic Missiles on Ukraine; 41 Dead, 180 Injured

Kyiv: Two Russian ballistic missiles struck a military training facility and a nearby hospital in Poltava, Ukraine, killing at least 41 people and wounding 180 others, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed.  

The attack, which took place in the city of Poltava—located about 350 kilometers southeast of Kyiv and along a key route between Kyiv and Kharkiv—appears to be one of the deadliest since the conflict began over 900 days ago on February 24, 2022.

Zelenskyy reported that “one of the buildings of the (Poltava Military) Institute of Communications was partially destroyed. People found themselves under the rubble. Many were saved.” He added that “all necessary services are involved in the rescue operation” and announced that he had ordered “a full and prompt investigation” into the incident, though no further details were provided.

The missiles struck shortly after an air raid alert, when many were heading to bomb shelters. Ukraine’s Defense Ministry described the strike as “barbaric” and stated that rescue crews and medics saved 25 people, including 11 who were dug out from the rubble.

Poltava Governor Filip Pronin declared three days of mourning starting Wednesday, calling it “a great tragedy for Poltava region and entire Ukraine,” and asserting that “the enemy certainly must answer for all (its) crimes against humanity.”

The attack occurred on the same day Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Mongolia. There was no sign that Mongolia would act on the international warrant for his arrest related to alleged war crimes.

Zelenskyy has reiterated his plea for Ukraine’s Western allies to expedite the delivery of military aid, emphasizing the urgency. He stated on Telegram, “Ukraine needs air defence systems and missiles now, not sitting in storage.” 

He also called for “long-range strikes that can protect us from Russian terror,” noting that “every day of delay, unfortunately, means more lost lives.”

(With inputs from AP)