In the early hours of May 24, the Russian military launched a significant assault on Kyiv using drones and missiles, resulting in two fatalities and over 80 injuries, including three children. The attack caused extensive destruction across eight districts of the capital, impacting residential areas, government buildings, and cultural institutions.
The assault severely damaged the “Ancient Kyiv” reserve and the National Chernobyl Museum, which had recently reopened after restoration. Other affected sites include:
- The Cabinet of Ministers and the National Bank, which sustained minor damage;
- Offices of the German media company Deutsche Welle, along with the editorial offices of “Real Newspaper” and the German public broadcaster ARD;
- The Zhytniy Market, where windows were shattered by the blast wave;
- The Ukrainian House, which experienced damage to its façade and entrance;
- The main office of Ukrposhta located in Independence Square;
- Residences of writer Olena Zakarchenko and director Iryna Tsilyk, which also suffered damage.
In a related incident, the Russian forces targeted the area near Bila Tserkva with an “Oreshnik” missile. This strike, confirmed by Yuriy Ihnat, head of communications for the Air Force of Ukraine, was launched from the Kapustin Yar range.
“Putin launched his ‘Oreshnik’ against Bila Tserkva. This is truly irrational. It is crucial that Russia faces consequences for these actions,” Ihnat stated.
The missile strike directly hit a unit of the State Emergency Service (SES) in Kyiv region, where approximately 30 firefighters were present. Fortunately, they managed to take cover in time, avoiding casualties. However, the attack completely destroyed ten fire trucks and damaged other equipment. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed.
The SES emphasized that the affected unit was solely engaged in humanitarian efforts to assist the local population. Additionally, the Chernobyl Museum was also impacted by the missile strike.
The “Oreshnik” is a Russian intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of reaching speeds exceeding 12,300 km/h and can carry multiple warheads, according to Ukrainian military sources.
In a separate development, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron on May 24, marking their first conversation since February 26, 2022, just before the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. During this call, Macron cautioned Lukashenko against direct involvement in the ongoing conflict.
Lastly, the 118th Separate Mechanized Brigade has been recognized in the Ukrainian Book of Records for its defense of the village of Mala Tokmachka in the Zaporizhzhia region. This unit has held its ground for over 1,500 days amidst continuous assaults, artillery shelling, airstrikes, and drone attacks.
Mala Tokmachka is situated just four kilometers from the front line, where Russian forces frequently bombard the area with guided bombs and artillery. Ukrainian defense forces maintain full control of the village, successfully repelling mechanized assaults and attempts by Russian troops to breach their defenses.
A recent Russian missile and drone strike on Kyiv resulted in significant casualties and damage to various infrastructures. The attack highlights ongoing military tensions in the region, while Belarusian leader Lukashenko's recent communication with Macron adds another layer to the geopolitical landscape.