**Kyiv Reels from One of Russia’s Deadliest Attacks**
On June 17, 2025, the city of Kyiv was hit by one of Russia’s deadliest attacks since the start of the year. The overnight strike saw a barrage of aerial weapons, including drones and missiles, targeting the capital and other parts of Ukraine.
According to officials, at least 14 people were killed in Kyiv, with 117 others injured. Two more people lost their lives in a Russian attack on the southern city of Odesa. The attacks left a trail of destruction across the city, damaging residential buildings, critical infrastructure, and cars.
**The Devastation**
The Solomianskyi district was among those hit hardest by the attack. A nine-story residential building was completely destroyed when a Russian cruise missile struck it. Lilia, a resident who had just left her father’s apartment in the building, is still waiting for news about his whereabouts.
“I ran to him after the first wave of drone attacks,” said Victoria Smirnova, Lilia’s mother-in-law. “He told me he would be home soon and that I should stay safe.” Minutes after Lilia left, the missile struck the building, leaving her father missing.
Residents in other parts of the city also suffered losses during the attack. Halyna Kushnirova, a 72-year-old retiree, had just stepped outside with her son when fresh explosions rocked the district. They took cover in an underground passageway, but the impact was still felt.
“It was terrible,” Kushnirov said. “Three missiles — with such a noise that my ears were ringing. The explosion was so strong that dust, smoke, and sparks filled the passageway.”
**The Aftermath**
As the city struggles to come to terms with the latest attack, residents are left feeling shocked and scared.
“I’m in shock,” said Kushnirov. “I still can’t fully grasp that this actually happened. I mean, I see it, but I can’t process it.” She wished President Trump were present to witness the destruction caused by his ally, Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Others have had enough of the attacks and are planning to leave Ukraine for good. Ivan Serebrianskyi, an entrepreneur who lives in a damaged building, wants his daughters to move abroad “within a few days.”
“The worst part is that we can’t plan at all for when it might end,” he said.
**A Young Generation Steps Up**
In the midst of the chaos, a group of young children from nearby houses showed up to help clear the debris. They were armed with brooms and scoops, and set to work sweeping up glass and litter off the sidewalk in front of the damaged building.
The children’s actions were met with praise from residents and reporters alike.
“The nation is growing up strong,” said Natalia, a resident who helped the kids. “They are not going to look past the troubles of others.”
