Russia Steps Up Targeting Ukrainian Cities; Ballistic Missiles Launched From Crimea

Russia Steps Up Targeting Ukrainian Cities; Ballistic Missiles Launched From Crimea
A Ukrainian serviceman inspects the damage to a building at the Pecherskyi district, after a Russian air attack in Kyiv, Ukraine, on March 25, 2024. Vadim Ghirda/AP Photo
The Associated Press
Updated:

KYIV, Ukraine—Russia launched missiles against Kyiv for the third time in five days Monday, part of an apparent escalation of aerial bombardment of Ukrainian cities as the war stretches into its third year.

Seven people were injured in the strike on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv Mayor Vitalii Klitschko said.

Russia fired two ballistic missiles at Kyiv from Crimea in the daylight attack, but both were intercepted above the city, said Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Military Administration.

The Pecherskyi district was the hardest hit. Missile debris damaged homes in two districts and a gym in another district, Ukraine’s National Police said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy renewed his appeal for Western partners to provide more air defense systems to protect against the attacks.

The attack came three days after a concert hall attack in Russia killed more than 130 people.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said some of the suspects in the concert hall attack were captured while trying to flee to Ukraine.

Kyiv denied any involvement in Friday’s assault and the ISIS terrorist group’s Afghanistan affiliate claimed responsibility.