Three Russian missiles struck Ukraine’s historic city of Chernihiv, resulting in 17 casualties and dozens of injuries. President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed the urgent need for more air defense systems from allies in order to protect the country from further aerial attacks. Residents described the terrifying moments of the attack, with buildings and cars across the city center being destroyed. The official death toll rose to 17, with emergency services continuing search and rescue operations.
The city of Chernihiv, located north of Kyiv, has a pre-war population of around 285,000 people and is known for its historic churches. The recent missile strikes have caused widespread damage to buildings, vehicles, and medical and educational facilities in the city. Mayor Oleksandr Lomako reported that more than a dozen buildings were damaged in the attack, with a policewoman among the casualties. The Chernihiv region, which borders Belarus, had not seen fighting for around two years until the recent missile strike.
President Zelensky blamed Russia for the attack on Chernihiv and emphasized the need for stronger support from the West in defending Ukraine’s skies. He mentioned the lack of air defense equipment as a major factor in the successful Russian missile strikes. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called for reliable protection from aerial attacks, citing the example of Israel’s defense systems. Ukraine is seeking additional air defense weapons from allies to counter Russian attacks on key infrastructure.
The urgent need for more sophisticated air defense weapons has been highlighted by the recent missile strikes on Chernihiv, along with poor weather conditions and attacks on Ukrainian power plants leading to limited electricity supplies. Zelensky and other officials have urged the international community to provide more support and assistance to Ukraine in defending against Russian aggression. The city of Chernihiv, previously occupied and besieged by Russian forces, is now facing further destruction due to long-range missile strikes.
Efforts to secure additional air defense systems from allies, such as Germany’s agreement to supply Ukraine with another Patriot system, are underway. Foreign Minister Kuleba plans to discuss further weapons assistance at a G7 meeting, emphasizing the need for reliable protection against Russian attacks. The situation in Ukraine remains tense, with ongoing Russian aggression and the urgent need for international support to defend against further missile strikes and protect civilian lives.
