By On Tuesday, Russia launched two ballistic missiles at a military institute in Poltava, Ukraine, killing at least 50 people and wounding 271 in what is now the deadliest single attack of the year. The strike severely damaged a building at the Military Institute of Communications, with images on social media showing bodies covered in dust and debris amidst the ruins. These images have not yet been independently verified by Reuters.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy condemned the attack, vowing that those responsible would be held accountable. He has called for a thorough and swift investigation into the incident. Poltava’s regional governor, Filip Pronin, reported that 51 people have been confirmed dead, with 15 more possibly trapped under the rubble.
The Ukrainian Land Forces stated that military personnel were among the casualties, although the exact number of armed forces members killed has not been detailed. The use of ballistic missiles, which hit their targets within minutes, left victims with minimal time to seek cover after the air raid siren sounded.
The Ministry of Defense reported that rescue teams have saved 25 people, including 11 from under the rubble, and efforts are ongoing. The Russian government has not yet responded to the attack.
This incident follows a recent escalation in Russia’s missile and drone strikes on Ukraine. Last week, Ukraine experienced its heaviest bombardment to date, and on Monday, Kyiv was hit by ballistic and cruise missiles. In response, Ukraine launched over 158 drones at Russia, targeting an oil refinery near Moscow and a power station.
Fighting has intensified recently, with Russian forces making advances in eastern Ukraine and Kyiv’s troops launching their first significant cross-border assault into Russia. Moscow has pledged retaliation for this incursion into the Kursk region.
Zelenskiy has renewed calls for increased Western air defenses and long-range weapons to protect Ukraine and strike deeper into Russian territory. He emphasized the urgency of acquiring these resources to prevent further loss of life.
In Poltava, located about 300 kilometers southeast of Kyiv and 120 kilometers from the nearest Russian border, residents have rallied to support the wounded, with around 150 people donating blood. Authorities have declared three days of mourning. At the time of the attack, classes were underway at the institute, and the alarm was sounded at 9:08 local time, just minutes before the explosions occurred.
This is not the first instance of Russia targeting military facilities away from the frontlines. In May 2022, a Russian strike on a training ground in Desna killed 87 people, and in March of the same year, 35 people were killed in a strike on a military base in western Ukraine.
