Russia targets Ukraine government building in record attack

Russia launched a record-breaking air assault on Ukraine overnight on Sept. 7, with over 800 air attack weapons raining down on the war-torn country, the Ukrainian Air Forces reported. 

The seat of government – the Cabinet of Ministers – in the heart of Kyiv was the first government building to be targeted since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.

“This is a clear signal that Russia does not want peace and openly mocks the diplomatic efforts of the civilized world,” Ukraine’s Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko said in a statement.

Ukraine’s air defenses intercepted 751 out of 823 various projectiles, while nine missiles and 54 attack drones struck 33 locations across the country.

In Kyiv, Russian drones hit residential high-rises in two districts, killing three people — including a 2-month-old infant and a woman — while another elderly woman died in a shelter. 

The strikes caused multiple fires and widespread damage throughout the city.

“Russians are deliberately and knowingly targeting civilian infrastructure,” said Kyiv City Military Administration head Tymur Tkachenko.

More than 220 people sought medical assistance following the attacks. Among the damaged infrastructure was a school.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the scale of the Russian strikes as a clear sign that  Kremlin ruler Vladimir Putin is testing the world’s resolve.

“Obviously, Russia is trying to inflict pain on Ukraine, and the attacks are becoming increasingly brazen. […] That’s why it’s crucial for statements from leaders, countries, and institutions to be backed by strong actions — sanctions against Russia, against individuals connected to Russia, and tough tariffs and other trade restrictions. Their losses must be felt,” Zelenskyy said.