**Massive Russian Attack on Kyiv Leaves 23 Dead, Over 130 Injured**
A devastating Russian missile and drone attack on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv has left at least 23 people dead and over 130 injured. The assault, which began late on June 16 and lasted for nine hours, is one of the largest aerial attacks on the city since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022.
The U.S. Embassy in Kyiv condemned the attack, saying it “runs counter” to President Donald Trump’s peace efforts. A statement from the embassy expressed deep condolences to the victims’ families and noted that the senseless attack was contrary to President Trump’s call for an end to the war.
The attack caused extensive damage across the city, with civilian infrastructure hit including kindergartens, a university dormitory, residential neighborhoods, and industrial sites. Unexploded cluster munitions were found in the city, which are banned by some countries due to the danger they pose to civilians.
Among the dead was a U.S. citizen, confirmed by State Department Press Secretary Tammy Bruce at a briefing on June 17. The White House has yet to issue an official response to the strike, with President Trump appearing unaware of the attack when questioned by reporters aboard Air Force One early on June 17.
**Russian Escalation**
The June 17 attack is just one example of Russia’s escalating strikes on Ukrainian cities in recent weeks, targeting residential areas and critical infrastructure. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the timing of the attack, as G7 leaders gathered in Canada, a deliberate message from the Kremlin.
Ukraine has urged Western allies to respond by reinforcing air defense capabilities and tightening economic pressure on Russia. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas urged the European Union to press forward with lowering the oil price cap on Russian crude, even without U.S. support.
**International Response**
The international community has condemned the attack, with President Volodymyr Zelensky calling it “one of the most horrifying attacks on Kyiv” and urging stronger international support to help Ukraine defend itself.
French President Emmanuel Macron said that the European Union and its allies are ready to toughen sanctions on Russia. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reiterated Canada’s unwavering support for Ukraine, saying “this support will be unwavering until we get a just peace for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people.”
**US Reaction**
The U.S. has yet to issue a formal statement on the attack, with President Trump appearing unaware of it when questioned by reporters. The debate over sanctions comes as intensified Russian strikes on Ukraine killed at least 14 people and injured 117 in Kyiv overnight on June 17.
As tensions escalate, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to this latest attack on Ukrainian soil.
**Read More**
To learn more about this developing story, please visit our website at kyivindependent.com.
