Russia launches ballistic missile strikes on Kyiv as Ukraine capital ‘bombarded’
Russia launched ballistic missile strikes on Kyiv, forcing residents into shelters as fires broke out across Ukraine’s capital, with cars and buildings reported ablaze after missile debris struck the city
Firefighter puts out blaze at car dealership after Russian strikes(Image: Getty)
Kyiv has come under bombardment from ballistic missiles just days after Russian President Vladimir Putin instructed diplomats to evacuate the city.
Columns of smoke were spotted billowing above the Ukrainian capital on Tuesday, June 2 as locals rushed to seek refuge underground.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko revealed that a blaze had erupted at a residential block after wreckage from a neighbouring non-residential building – which was ablaze – crashed onto its rooftop.
Local people were reportedly left pinned beneath debris close to the structure, though it’s still uncertain whether there were any injuries or deaths.
Citizens crammed into underground stations carrying sleeping bags and camping equipment to flee the bombardment.
“In the Obolon district, cars are burning after being struck by falling missile debris. There are also fires at two locations in open areas, including one near a kindergarten,” Klitschko announced on Telegram.
Earlier that day, the nation’s Air Force alerted civilians about approaching ballistic missiles before military officials urged Ukrainians to seek cover.
It also reported that Russia had struck Dnipro and Zaporizhzhia hours after rockets were believed to have been fired towards Ukraine from the Caspian Sea.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned the nation on Monday that a “massive” assault from Russia might be imminent.
“Intelligence warnings regarding Russian strikes remain in effect. A massive strike is possible, they have prepared one.
“Our defenders are ready 24/7 to the fullest extent possible with the supplies currently available.”
Just days prior, Russia had advised foreign nationals and diplomats to depart “as soon as possible” and cautioned civilians to steer clear of government and military buildings.
It’s believed that these attacks are a retaliation for a drone strike last week on a dormitory in Ukraine’s Russian-controlled Luhansk region.
Russia alleged that the attack resulted in 21 fatalities, although Ukraine refuted carrying out the strike.
