Russia Unleashes 21 Ballistic Missiles on Kyiv in Three Waves, Striking 12 Regions Across Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday condemned massive Russian attacks on Kyiv and other regions of Ukraine, describing them as a deliberate show of force following renewed talks between Moscow and Washington. “Three waves of ballistic missiles have been launched at Kyiv by Russian ‘humanitarians’ since yesterday evening,” Zelensky wrote on X, highlighting the timing of the strikes just hours after President Vladimir Putin held peace negotiations with US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff in St Petersburg. The attacks come amid a renewed diplomatic push, but Moscow’s actions on the ground suggest little change in its military objectives.nnAccording to city authorities, Russian forces struck Kyiv with three waves of ballistic missiles overnight into October 22, killing one person and injuring 24, including four children. The strikes hit residential buildings, energy facilities, and transport infrastructure, causing significant damage and disruption. Russia launched 21 ballistic missiles against Kyiv in three successive waves overnight on 21–22 October, according to reports. The State Emergency Service of Ukraine (DSNS Kyiv) released photos showing the aftermath of the strikes, with emergency crews working through the night to rescue survivors and extinguish fires.nnThe assault was not limited to the capital. Russian drones and missiles struck 12 regions across Ukraine, targeting critical infrastructure and civilian areas. This widespread attack underscores the continued threat to civilians far from the front lines. Zelensky described the strikes as a deliberate show of force by Moscow following the previous day’s negotiations, suggesting that Russia is not genuinely committed to peace. The timing—just hours after the Witkoff-Putin talks—raises questions about Moscow’s sincerity in diplomatic efforts.nnIn the wake of the attacks, international observers are calling for stronger responses to Russia’s continued aggression. The use of ballistic missiles, which are harder to intercept than drones, poses a significant challenge to Ukraine’s air defense systems. The strikes on energy facilities also raise concerns about the upcoming winter, as Ukraine’s power grid remains vulnerable. As rescue operations conclude and communities begin to rebuild, the human toll of Russia’s tactics is evident. The international community must address these violations and support Ukraine’s right to defend itself. The attacks serve as a stark
Shimanta Das 
