A Russian attack on the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil has resulted in the deaths of nine individuals and left dozens more injured, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The strikes, which occurred overnight, targeted residential buildings, including nine-storey apartment blocks. The assault is described by Zelensky as a “brazen attack,” with Russia launching over 470 drones and 47 missiles across Ukraine.
In addition to Ternopil, three districts of Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, were also struck, leading to injuries for more than 30 people, including children. Eyewitness accounts and images posted online depict significant destruction, with buildings and vehicles engulfed in flames. The Ukrainian energy ministry has reported power outages affecting numerous regions in the aftermath of the attacks.
Significant Damage Across Multiple Regions
The early morning assault on February 7, 2024, marks one of the deadliest incidents in western Ukraine since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. President Zelensky highlighted the “significant destruction” in Ternopil, expressing concern that individuals may be trapped beneath the rubble. In addition to residential damage, critical infrastructure including energy facilities and transport systems were impacted across western Ukraine.
In the Ivano-Frankivsk region, two of the three reported injuries involved children, and critical energy infrastructure was also targeted in the Lviv region. Zelensky noted that an energy facility in Lviv had been struck, exacerbating the already challenging situation for civilians.
Call for International Support
While attending discussions in Turkey with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Zelensky urged Ukraine’s allies for increased assistance. He stated, “Every brazen attack against ordinary life shows that the pressure on Russia is insufficient. Effective sanctions and assistance to Ukraine can change this.” His remarks indicate a push for intensified support as Ukraine continues to grapple with ongoing assaults.
Zelensky’s aim to “intensify” peace negotiations ahead of the Ankara meeting faced obstacles, as the Kremlin announced that no Russian representatives would participate. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as more details emerge regarding the extent of the attacks and the international response.
This tragic incident underscores the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, as civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict.
