Devastating Russian Missile Strike in Poltava: Over 40 Dead, Says Zelenskyy

A Russian missile strike on the city of Poltava in central Ukraine has resulted in the deaths of at least 41 people and left more than 180 injured, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The attack targeted a military training facility and a nearby hospital, causing significant destruction and loss of life.

Key Takeaways

• Casualties: At least 41 people killed and over 180 injured.

• Targets: A military training facility and a nearby hospital in Poltava.

• Response: Ukrainian authorities are conducting rescue operations and investigations.

• Context: One of the deadliest strikes since the war began over two years ago.

The Attack

Two ballistic missiles struck an educational institution and a nearby hospital in Poltava, located 190 miles southeast of Kyiv. One of the buildings of the Poltava Military Institute of Communication was partially destroyed. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry described the day as "terrible" for Poltava, noting the short time interval between the alarm and the missile impact, which caught many people during their evacuation to bomb shelters.

Immediate Aftermath

NBC News geolocated a video showing bomb damage to the 179th Training Center of Signal Forces for the Ukrainian Armed Forces in Poltava. A photo circulating on social media, also geolocated to the center, showed the bodies of at least five people in military uniforms among the rubble. Some people were trapped under the debris, but many were rescued. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported that rescuers had contained the fire and were continuing to clear the rubble, with 11 people pulled from under the debris.

Official Statements

President Zelenskyy announced a full and prompt investigation into the circumstances of the attack. He confirmed that all necessary services are involved in the rescue operation. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry emphasized the severity of the strike, highlighting the tragic loss of life and the destruction of critical infrastructure.

Historical Context

This missile strike is one of the deadliest attacks on Ukraine since the war began over two and a half years ago. A similar missile attack on Kyiv in July also resulted in 41 deaths. The ongoing conflict has seen numerous such incidents, causing widespread devastation and loss of life.

Ongoing Developments

As this is a developing story, updates are expected as more information becomes available. Ukrainian authorities continue to work on rescue operations and investigate the full extent of the damage and casualties.

Sources

• Russian missile strike on Ukraine's Poltava kills more than 40, Zelenskyy says, NBC News.