KYIV: A Russian ballistic missile struck the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih, President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown, on Friday, killing at least 19 people, including nine children. The attack, one of the deadliest this year, also injured 68 others, among them a three-month-old infant.
Local officials confirmed extensive damage to residential buildings, schools, and businesses. Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul described the assault as a deliberate attack on civilians, calling it a “tragic evening and night” in a Telegram post.
Cluster Munitions Used for Maximum Carnage
Ukrainian military sources revealed that the missile was equipped with a cluster warhead, designed to spread explosives over a wide area. This type of weapon increases civilian casualties, violating international laws of war.
The strike hit near a children’s playground and residential streets, leaving behind scenes of devastation. Emergency crews worked through the night to pull survivors from the rubble as hospitals overflowed with the wounded.
Zelensky Condemns “Terrorist Act”
President Zelensky, in an emotional address, condemned the attack as another “bloody crime” by Russia. “They target our homes, our children, our future,” he said. “This is not war—this is terrorism.”
Hours later, Russian drones struck a power plant in Kherson, further crippling Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Zelensky accused Moscow of systematically targeting civilian facilities despite previous ceasefire assurances.
Russia’s Contradictory Claims
The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the strike was aimed at a “high-level military meeting” between Ukrainian officers and Western advisors. They alleged 85 foreign personnel were killed, a claim swiftly dismissed by Kyiv as false propaganda.
No evidence supports Russia’s version, and local authorities confirmed only civilian casualties. Analysts suggest the Kremlin is attempting to justify indiscriminate attacks amid growing international condemnation.
Failed Peace Efforts and Stalled Negotiations
Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for a swift ceasefire, peace talks remain deadlocked. Trump recently expressed frustration after Putin rejected his proposal for an immediate truce during a tense phone call.
Ukrainian and European leaders suspect Putin is stalling, betting on prolonged conflict to weaken Western resolve. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with a Russian envoy this week, warning that time is running out for a diplomatic solution.
Black Sea Agreement Hangs in the Balance
Last week, the U.S. brokered a temporary halt to hostilities in the Black Sea, including a pause on energy infrastructure attacks. However, Russia has since demanded sanctions relief as a condition for extending the deal.
Ukraine insists Moscow must first adhere to existing agreements before further negotiations. The delay raises fears of renewed strikes on ports and grain exports, worsening global food insecurity.
Global Outrage and Calls for Justice
The UN and human rights groups have condemned the Kryvyi Rih attack as a potential war crime. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is reviewing evidence, but Russia continues to deny targeting civilians.
Western leaders pledged additional military aid to Ukraine, including advanced air defense systems. NATO is expected to discuss further sanctions at next month’s summit.
A City Under Siege
Kryvyi Rih has faced relentless bombardment in recent months. Earlier in June, a separate strike killed four civilians in a taxi stand. Residents now live in constant fear, with shelters overcrowded and supplies dwindling.
Local volunteers described the aftermath as “hell on earth,” with children’s toys scattered among the debris. Psychological trauma among survivors, especially minors, is becoming a growing crisis.
What Comes Next?
With no breakthrough in peace talks, Ukraine braces for more attacks. Zelensky has vowed retaliation, while Russia shows no signs of de-escalation. The world watches as the war drags on, with civilians paying the highest price.
