**Russian Drone Attack on Kyiv Leaves Death and Destruction in Its Wake**
A devastating Russian drone attack on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv has left two people dead, eight injured, including four children, and several buildings damaged. The attack, which occurred in the early hours of May 7, also destroyed a residential building where Serhii Mandryk, a retired photographer, lives.
According to eyewitness accounts, Mandryk was on a call with acquaintances when an air raid alert sounded, but he decided to stay at home and continue with his conversation. Just five minutes later, he heard the familiar buzz of a Russian attack drone overhead, followed by an explosion that shattered windows and damaged his apartment.
While Mandryk was fortunate to escape uninjured, others were not so lucky. The 64-year-old woman, identified as Tetiana, who lived in the same building as Mandryk, along with her son, died in the attack. Three of their cats also perished, but one survived. Both Tetiana and her son were volunteers for the Kyiv Animal Rescue Group.
**A Community Rallies Around**
As news of the attack spread, a community came together to provide support and assistance to those affected. Volunteers set up a tent near the damaged building, handing out coffee, water, pies, and mashed potatoes with meat cutlets. A woman was seen cradling her 11-year-old black cat, Krasulia, who had been rescued from under the bed during the attack.
**A Warning Against Russia’s Ceasefire**
The attack on Kyiv came ahead of a supposed ceasefire, unilaterally declared by the Kremlin to mark Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9. However, as the attack demonstrated, this promise of peace seems to be nothing more than an empty gesture.
“Many times, Russians promised something, but they don’t keep their word,” said Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, who advised those affected on how to claim compensation for the damage caused. “We don’t trust (them).”
**A Community in Shock**
The attack has left many residents in shock and awe. Oleh Borysovych, a resident from a nearby neighborhood, visited the area hit by the drone most days but felt fortunate it was not his building that was struck.
“We are the ones standing on the sidelines and watching,” he said. “Imagine how these people (in the damaged apartments) feel.”
**A Post-Office in Need of Repair**
The attack also damaged a supermarket, a pharmacy, and several cars. The post office branch near the metro station was also affected, with employees clearing debris and broken glass.
“We can’t stop our work — we have to keep serving people,” said Yan Bedrytskyi, the head of Ukrposhta’s real estate management center for Kyiv Oblast.
Despite the optimism about getting back to work, Bedrytskyi had a more pessimistic view on Russia’s intentions and the possibility of peace. “I don’t see anything in this ceasefire. It won’t solve anything. We’ve already had a ceasefire before — and it ended in war.”
As Kyiv continues to reel from the devastating attack, residents remain wary of any promises made by Russia, knowing that history has shown them to be unreliable.
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