Russian Ballistic Missile Attack on Kyiv Kills One, Damages Infrastructure

Dec 20, 2024, 07:42 AM

On the morning of December 20, 2024, Russia launched a missile attack on Kyiv, firing eight missiles, including Kinzhal and Iskander-M/KN-23 ballistic missiles. Multiple explosions were reported around 7 a.m. local time after the Ukrainian Air Force warned of an incoming missile attack targeting the capital. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported fires in several districts—Holosiivskyi, Solomianskyi, Shevchenkivskyi, and Dnipro—due to falling missile debris that ignited cars and buildings. At least one person was killed and nine were injured, with four hospitalized. The attack caused significant damage, including fires on rooftops, cars, and damage to civilian infrastructure such as a heat pipeline in the Holosiivskyi district. Approximately 630 residential buildings, 16 medical facilities, 17 schools, and 13 kindergartens were left without heat. A business center housing a major international hotel was also damaged. While Ukrainian authorities stated that five ballistic missiles were fired at Kyiv, the Ukrainian Air Force claimed to have intercepted five ballistic missiles and 40 drones during the attack.