A devastating missile attack on the northern Ukrainian city of Chernihiv has resulted in the loss of at least 13 lives and left dozens injured, as confirmed by local officials. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, inflicted significant damage to buildings and municipal infrastructure in the area.

According to Interior Minister Ihor Klimenko, the assault claimed the lives of at least 13 residents and left more than 60 individuals wounded. The targeted areas included a four-storey building, a hospital, an educational institution, and numerous private vehicles. Reports of the attack were relayed by the British news agency Reuters.

Regional governor Vyacheslav Chaus attributed the attack to Russia, stating that it was carried out using three Iskander cruise missiles. The aftermath of the assault saw the injured rushed to city hospitals, with the head of the regional hospital issuing an urgent appeal for blood donations from locals.

Acting mayor Oleksandr Lomako described the harrowing events that unfolded after 9pm local time, recounting three explosions that tore through a bustling part of the city and resulted in the collapse of a multi-storey building. Lomako condemned the attack as another instance of Russia's involvement in terrorist activities targeting civilian populations and infrastructure.

In the wake of the tragedy, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky swiftly denounced the assault and appealed for support from allies. Zelensky lamented the loss of life and emphasized the need for adequate air defense equipment to prevent such casualties. He further underscored the importance of global solidarity in confronting Russia's acts of terror, suggesting that stronger international action could have averted the tragedy in Chernihiv.