Russia launched two ballistic missiles at an educational institution in Poltava, partially destroying one of the buildings of the Institute of Communications. As of now, 41 people are reported dead, and another 180 are injured.
This information was reported by President Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ministry of Defense, and the Ministry of Internal Affairs.
Zelensky stated, "I received preliminary reports on the Russian strike on Poltava. According to the information available, two ballistic missiles hit the territory of an educational institution and a neighboring hospital. One of the buildings of the Institute of Communications was partially destroyed."
People were trapped under the rubble, and many were rescued. Unfortunately, more than 180 people were injured, and there were many fatalities.
"As of now, we know of 41 deaths. My condolences to all the families and loved ones," said the President.
The head of state has instructed a full and prompt investigation into the circumstances of the attack.
"All necessary services are involved in the rescue operation. I am grateful to everyone who, from the first moments after the strike, is helping people and saving lives. The Russian scum will definitely answer for this strike," Zelensky emphasized.
He once again reminded Ukraine's partners that the country needs permission to conduct long-range strikes with Western weapons against Russia to protect against Russian terror. He stressed that this is needed "now, not sometime later."
"Every day of delay, unfortunately, means the loss of lives. Eternal memory to all whose lives were taken by Russia!" Zelensky added.
The Ministry of Defense stated that "today, Poltava is experiencing a terrible day." They confirmed that the Russian aggressor launched a barbaric attack on the city's educational institution.
"According to available information, the enemy used two ballistic missiles. The time between the alert and the arrival of the deadly missiles was so short that it caught people during their evacuation to the bomb shelter," the ministry said.
They also informed that one of the institute's buildings was partially destroyed, with many people trapped under the rubble. Thanks to the coordinated work of rescuers and medics, 25 people were saved, including 11 who were freed from the debris.
"We express our sincere condolences to the families of the victims. This tragedy is yet another testament to the treachery of the enemy, who will stop at nothing to try to intimidate Ukrainians. We urge everyone to remain calm and trust only official sources of information. Any speculation on this tragedy is unacceptable," added the Ministry of Defense.
Emergency services are currently working at the site of the Russian strike on an educational institution in Poltava.
Near the impact site, there is a residential area. The blast wave shattered windows in high-rise buildings and damaged facades.
The police are conducting a door-to-door inspection to check for any additional casualties. Nearly a hundred reports of property damage have already been filed.
The work is ongoing. Rescue teams will continue operating, taking security considerations into account, until they are certain that all those trapped under the rubble have been freed.
