Death Toll from Russian Missile Strike on Kyiv Rises to 31, Including Children; 159 Injured – Zelenskyy

The death toll from Russia’s latest missile assault on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, has climbed to 31, including five children, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. An additional 159 individuals have been reported injured.

In a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, President Zelenskyy cited figures from Minister of Internal Affairs Ihor Klymenko and confirmed that emergency response teams have concluded search and rescue operations at the targeted sites.

“Unfortunately, as of now, 31 people have been confirmed dead, including 5 children. The youngest was just two years old,” Zelenskyy stated.
“My condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased. 159 people have been injured, including 16 children.”

Zelenskyy commended the swift and courageous efforts of emergency personnel.

“I am grateful to the rescuers, police officers, doctors, nurses, utility workers — everyone who is helping people right now. This is truly vital.”

Condemning the strike as a “vile” act, the Ukrainian leader renewed calls for the international community to intensify pressure on Moscow through sanctions and unified action.

“This vile strike by Russia demonstrates once again the need for increased pressure on Moscow and additional sanctions. No matter how much the Kremlin denies their effectiveness, sanctions do work — and they must be strengthened.”

“They must target everything that enables such attacks to continue. It is also crucial that the world does not remain silent.”

President Zelenskyy also expressed appreciation to Ukraine’s allies.

“We value the fact that President Trump, European leaders, and other partners clearly see what is happening and condemn Russia.”

Highlighting the scale of the Russian offensive in July, Zelenskyy revealed:

“In July alone, Russia used over 5,100 glide bombs, more than 3,800 Shahed drones, and nearly 260 missiles of various types — 128 of them ballistic. This can only be stopped through joint efforts — by America, Europe, and other global actors. Every engagement matters. Every day matters.”

Ukrainian authorities earlier confirmed that 16 people — including two children and a police officer — were among the victims of what Zelenskyy described as one of the most brutal attacks in recent months. At least 150 others, including 16 children and six police officers, sustained injuries.

The President decried the assault as an “unimaginable scale of terror and brutality.”

Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that Kyiv has called for an urgent United Nations Security Council meeting in response to the strike.

Emergency restoration efforts are currently underway across affected areas in Kyiv, according to Minister Klymenko.