In a distressing turn of events, Kryvyi Rih, the birthplace of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, faced another Russian missile attack on August 27, 2024, during an official day of mourning for victims of a previous strike. This assault on civilian infrastructure wounded four individuals, as reported by local administration head Oleksandr Vilkul.
The attack came just a day after a devastating strike on August 26, which claimed four lives and injured five others at a hotel in the city. Serhii Lysak, the regional head, expressed dismay at the timing of the assault, stating, > "When Kryvyi Rih is in mourning, the enemy attacks again. And it once again aims at civilians."
These incidents are part of an intensified bombing campaign by Russian forces. On August 26, Russia launched over 100 missiles and a similar number of drones in its most significant onslaught in weeks. This escalation coincides with what could be a pivotal moment in the conflict, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, approximately 2.5 years ago.
The situation in the Donetsk region remains critical, with Russian forces advancing deeper into the partially occupied territory. Their focus is on capturing Pokrovsk, a vital logistics hub for Ukrainian defense efforts. This push aligns with one of the Kremlin's primary objectives: the complete seizure of the Donetsk region.
In response to the ongoing aggression, Ukraine has taken unprecedented action by sending forces into Russia's Kursk region. This incursion, the largest onto Russian soil since World War II, aims to compel Russia to redirect troops from the Donetsk front.
Amidst these developments, Ukraine continues to demonstrate its defensive capabilities. The nation's military claims to have destroyed a Russian Su-25 jet in the Donetsk region, showcasing the effectiveness of its anti-aircraft defenses. Additionally, Ukraine has persisted with long-range drone attacks on Russian logistical areas, successfully targeting a fuel depot.
The conflict has had far-reaching consequences, triggering the largest refugee crisis in Europe since World War II. As the situation evolves, both sides are employing increasingly sophisticated tactics, including the extensive use of drones and precision strikes on critical infrastructure.
Kryvyi Rih, the largest city in central Ukraine by area and the eighth most populous in the country, has become a symbol of resilience. Known for its iron ore mining and metallurgy industries, the city boasts the longest main street in Europe, stretching an impressive 50 kilometers. Founded in the 17th century by Zaporozhian Cossacks, Kryvyi Rih's rich history now intertwines with the harsh realities of modern warfare.
As the conflict approaches its third year, the international community watches closely, hoping for a resolution to this devastating war that has reshaped the geopolitical landscape of Eastern Europe.