**Russia’s Missile Attack on Kryvyi Rih Leaves 19 Dead, Including 9 Children**
A devastating missile attack by Russian forces on the Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih has left 19 people dead, including nine children. The attack also injured 68 others, with two children in critical condition.
According to Oleksandr Vilkul, the head of Kryvyi Rih’s military administration, the combined missile and drone attack on the evening of April 4 set buildings ablaze in residential districts. “Sixty-eight people were injured in the terrorist attacks, ranging from a three-month-old child to elderly individuals,” Vilkul said.
The attack damaged 34 apartment buildings and six educational facilities, as well as various shops, businesses, cars, and homes. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed the attack was targeted at a military gathering, but this claim has been dismissed by the Ukrainian military as “false information.”
**Ukrainian President Zelensky Speaks Out**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky strongly condemned the attack, saying that Russia’s actions are driven by a desire to prolong the war and avoid a ceasefire. “Every Russian promise ends with missiles or drones, bombs or artillery,” he said. “Diplomacy means nothing to them.”
Zelensky also highlighted the frequency of attacks on Kryvyi Rih, which remains a target for Russian forces despite being his hometown. The city is home to about 660,000 people and lies roughly 70 kilometers from the front line.
**International Reaction**
The international community has been quick to condemn Russia’s actions. French President Emmanuel Macron is set to become Europe’s point person in negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, while other world leaders have expressed concern over the ongoing conflict.
In related news, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen warned that Europe cannot afford a disjointed transition in defense capabilities, which could provide Russia with an opportunity to exploit gaps in security. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan also spoke out against Russian aggression, saying that any proposal for a ceasefire must be reasonable and not lead to further death and destruction.
**The Way Forward**
As the conflict continues to escalate, it remains unclear what path forward will be taken by Russia and Ukraine. The international community is watching closely, with many hoping that Russia will show a genuine commitment to peace.
For now, however, the people of Kryvyi Rih are dealing with the aftermath of a devastating attack that has left so many innocent lives lost or changed forever.
**A Closer Look**
One aspect of this attack that stands out is its indiscriminate nature. A missile strike on a residential area, killing a woman in her home and injuring at least five civilians, including children, raises serious questions about Russia’s targeting practices.
President Zelensky was quick to point out that such attacks cannot be accidental, given the clear knowledge of the target’s critical energy role. This suggests a deliberate attempt to cause maximum harm, which is a disturbing trend in this conflict.
**A Commentary**
This attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As the international community continues to grapple with how to address this crisis, it’s essential that we take note of the devastating consequences for ordinary people caught up in this conflict.
The fact that a residential area was targeted by Russian forces raises serious questions about their targeting practices and their commitment to minimizing civilian casualties. It also highlights the need for greater pressure on Russia from the international community to cease these attacks and engage in genuine negotiations with Ukraine.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the people of Kryvyi Rih and all those affected by this conflict deserve our sympathy, support, and advocacy for peace.