Zelenskyy says Russian missile strike on Kyiv residential building killed 24 Photo

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said a Russian missile strike on a residential building in Kyiv killed 24 people, including three children, as search and rescue operations at the site were completed.

“The search and rescue operation at the site of Russia’s strike on a residential building in Kyiv has been completed. Our first responders from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine worked continuously for more than a day. The Russians practically demolished an entire section of the building with their missile," Zelenskyy wrote on X, Caliber.Az reports. 

The search and rescue operation at the site of Russia’s strike on a residential building in Kyiv has been completed. Our first responders from the State Emergency Service of Ukraine worked continuously for more than a day. The Russians practically demolished an entire section of… pic.twitter.com/PjbSSomhWu

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) May 15, 2026

The Ukrainian president expressed his condolences to families and loved ones of those killed in Russian strikes, noting the importance for those who was wounded or lost their home to recieve necessary assistance. 

"In total, 48 people were wounded in Kyiv as a result of yesterday’s attack, including two children. I thank the State Emergency Service, the National Police, and everyone who dealt with the aftermath of this Russian attack and helped people,” he added. 

He said the attack underscored the continued need for international pressure on Russia and stronger air defence support for Ukraine.

“A Russia like this can never be normalized – a Russia that deliberately destroys lives and hopes to remain unpunished. Pressure is needed. It is Ukraine that is defending Europe and the world so that such strikes, in which children are killed, do not spread further. That is why support for the defenders of life must continue," Zelenskyy wrote. 

He further emphasised the need for ballistic missile defence and thanked the partners who continue investing in the PURL initiative and develop anti-ballistic coalition.

"All of this must be implemented. I am grateful to everyone who did not remain silent and condemned this savage strike,” he added.

The president also said rescue teams had worked for more than a day to complete operations at the destroyed residential site, while emergency and police services continue to assist survivors and assess the damage.

By Sabina Mammadli