Russian Missile Strike Kills 14, Including 6 Children, in Zelenskyy’s Hometown

A Russian ballistic missile strike on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih on Friday claimed the lives of at least 14 people, including six children, and left more than 50 others injured, Ukrainian officials said.

The attack, which struck residential areas in President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s hometown, damaged about 20 apartment buildings, over 30 vehicles, a school, and a restaurant, according to local authorities. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and psychologists were deployed to support survivors.

“The missile struck an area right next to residential buildings — hitting a playground and ordinary streets,” Zelenskyy wrote on Telegram, calling the strike another act of violence targeting civilians.

Regional leader Serhii Lysak condemned the attack as an “assault against civilians” and reiterated calls for international support.

Zelenskyy blamed Russia’s continued aggression on its refusal to end the war, urging Ukraine’s allies to ramp up pressure on Moscow and boost Ukraine’s air defenses.

“Every missile, every drone strike proves Russia wants only war,” Zelenskyy said. “The United States, Europe, and the rest of the world have enough power to make Russia abandon terror and war.”

Meanwhile, Russia has resisted growing international calls for a ceasefire. A U.S.-backed proposal for a 30-day halt in fighting has been met with rejection from Moscow, while the U.K. and French foreign ministers accused President Vladimir Putin of stalling peace efforts.