Russian Missile Attacks Kill 8, Injure 34 in Dnipro, Ukraine

On April 19, 2024, Russian missile attacks in the Ukrainian city of Dnipro killed at least 8 people, including 2 children, and injured 34 others. The strikes partially destroyed a five-story residential building, setting it on fire, and damaged the railway station in downtown Dnipro.

According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, rescue efforts at the sites have concluded, with 3 people killed and 24 injured in Dnipro. A total of 12 people were rescued, and 51 received psychological assistance from emergency service personnel. The attacks also caused casualties and destruction in other parts of the Dnipropetrovsk region, with houses and infrastructure hit in the Synelnykove district and the city of Kryvyi Rih.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed condolences to the families and friends of the victims, and called for concrete decisions from Ukraine's partners on air defense systems. "Ukraine needs more than just discussions in the face of escalating Russian strikes and civilian casualties," Zelensky stated.

The deadly attacks prompted a day of mourning in Ukraine on April 20. Dnipro mayor Borys Filatov declared that flags on public institutions would be flown at half-mast, and businesses were advised to display flags with black ribbons to honor the memory of those killed.

Why this matters: The Russian missile strikes on civilian targets in Ukraine underscore the ongoing human toll of the conflict and the urgent need for enhanced air defense capabilities. As the war continues, the international community faces increasing pressure to support Ukraine in protecting its citizens from indiscriminate attacks.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba condemned the strikes, emphasizing that "children must not be killed in airstrikes in modern Europe." The attacks serve as a sobering reminder of the devastating impact of the war on innocent lives and the importance of international efforts to bring an end to the conflict.

Key Takeaways

• Russian missile strikes in Dnipro, Ukraine killed 8, including 2 children.
• Rescue efforts concluded with 3 killed, 24 injured, and 12 people rescued.
• Attacks caused casualties and destruction in other parts of Dnipropetrovsk region.
• Ukraine calls for air defense systems from partners to protect civilians.
• Attacks underscore the human toll of the conflict and need for enhanced air defense.