Two-year-old among 28 dead in Thursday's Russian attack on Kyiv

 

On Thursday, Russia carried out a massive drone and missile assault on Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital, killing at least 28 people and injuring more than 150. Among the victims was a two-year-old child whose body was pulled from rubble on Friday morning, according to Ukraine's Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. The attack also killed two other children, aged six and seventeen. Sixteen other children were wounded, making it the largest number of minors injured in a single strike on Kyiv since Russia’s full-scale invasion began nearly three and a half years ago.

The attack involved over 300 drones and eight missiles launched during the early hours. Rescue efforts are ongoing, and the city has declared Friday a day of mourning. Photos and videos shared on social media and news platforms show destroyed apartment blocks, burning buildings, and emergency crews working through the night to locate survivors.

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Officials from the Ukrainian president’s office described the strike as a deliberate attack on civilians. The sheer scale of the assault and the resulting casualties have renewed global calls for stronger responses from Western allies.

Prime Minister Svyrydenko emphasized that the international community has the tools necessary to hold Russia accountable. She said the real issue is a lack of political will rather than a lack of power. The tragedy has stirred outrage, but concrete international actions remain uncertain.

The devastating attack on Kyiv has sparked global reactions, including from U.S. President Donald Trump. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump condemned Russia’s actions as “disgusting,” but expressed doubt over whether economic sanctions alone could deter President Vladimir Putin. He stated that he has given Putin until August 8 to reach a peace deal or face increased economic pressure.

While his remarks drew attention, critics argue that setting a deadline without clear enforcement could weaken international resolve. Trump’s statement marks one of his strongest public condemnations of Russia since returning to the political spotlight, but it remains unclear what specific actions will follow if Putin does not comply.

Many international leaders and organizations have reiterated their support for Ukraine but stopped short of announcing new penalties or military aid. Human rights groups and Ukrainian officials continue to urge swift legal and economic measures to hold Russia accountable for targeting civilians.

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The high number of child casualties has intensified global outrage. Ukrainian presidential advisor Andriy Yermak said the attack showed Russia’s total disregard for human life and international law. He called on the international community to recognize this as a war crime and respond accordingly.

As rescue teams continue working in Kyiv, citizens mourn the loss of innocent lives. Vigils and memorials are being held across the city. Families affected by the attack are receiving support from local authorities and international aid groups, but the scale of destruction is overwhelming.

Prime Minister Svyrydenko’s comments about the world’s lack of will reflect a growing frustration among Ukrainians. As the war drags on, calls for firmer international action are increasing  especially in light of the attack’s severity and the loss of young lives.