On 4 April, Russia launched a missile attack on the central Ukrainian city of Kryvyi Rih using an Iskander-M ballistic missile equipped with a cluster warhead. The strike killed 18 civilians, including 9 children, and injured 62 others. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine condemned the attack as a deliberate and barbaric act targeting civilians. The strike hit residential buildings, playgrounds and civilian infrastructure, with no military presence at or near the site.
Ukrainian authorities described the attack as a war crime and a direct violation of international humanitarian law. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the missile attack was not only a crime against the people of Kryvyi Rih but also a geopolitical signal from the Kremlin to Washington, underlining Moscow’s defiance in the face of peace efforts.
In a strongly worded statement, the ministry stressed that Russia is not interested in negotiations or peace and instead continues to use terror tactics. It noted that Ukraine remains committed to peace and has made real efforts, while Russia has responded only with escalating violence.
The statement directly rejected Moscow’s claim that the target was a military object, calling it a lie. Ukrainian officials highlighted that the only objective of the Russian strike was civilian death and destruction.
Ukraine has already informed international partners and organisations about the nature of the attack and its consequences. The country has urged global partners to respond firmly, including with tougher sanctions, strengthened air defences, and additional military aid. It also called for international gatherings to be convened in response to ongoing Russian attacks on residential areas across Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also commented on the muted response from some global actors, saying there is fear around naming Russia as the aggressor, even in the face of clear war crimes. Ukraine continues to gather evidence of Russian crimes and emphasises the importance of accountability through international justice.
According to the latest updates, the number of victims of the Kryvyi Rih strike has risen to 72, with many still in hospital.
