In a significant escalation of hostilities, Kyiv was struck by a large wave of Russian drone and missile attacks early Tuesday morning, according to Ukrainian officials. The strikes have left residents in fear as they deal with the aftermath of the destruction.

Impact on Residential Areas

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that a multi-story residential building in the Podilsky district partially collapsed due to a ‘double tap’ strike. Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv city military administration, indicated that preliminary reports suggest people are trapped under the rubble.

In addition, a suspected missile strike hit a 24-story residential building in the Shevchenkivskyi district, igniting a fire. Another blaze broke out in a nine-story building in Podil after debris struck the roof, further endangering residents.

Casualties and Warnings

At least eight individuals across Kyiv were wounded in these attacks, which also caused power outages in three districts, according to Mayor Klitschko. In other regions, Russian attacks have resulted in at least four deaths and 13 injuries.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had warned of a possible ‘massive’ Russian strike, noting that preparations were underway for such an assault. This follows Russia’s announcement of ‘systematic strikes’ against military facilities in Kyiv, as reported by Russian state media.

Furthermore, Russia’s Foreign Ministry has advised foreign nationals, including diplomatic staff and international organization personnel, to evacuate Kyiv ‘as soon as possible.’

This situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.