Attack on Ukraine shopping centre that killed 16 is ‘terror by design’, says EU foreign policy chief

An attack on a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih, central Ukraine, has left 16 people dead and over 130 injured, with Ukrainian officials describing the assault as a deliberate act of terror. The incident occurred on Friday, drawing sharp condemnation from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who called it “cynical and despicable.” The European Union’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, labeled the strike “terror by design” and announced plans to introduce the most extensive set of sanctions against Russia since the beginning of the war during a ministerial meeting in Ireland next month. The attack targeted a bustling commercial area in Kryvyi Rih, a city approximately 60 kilometers from the front lines. According to initial reports from Ukrainian emergency services, 15 people were killed and 130 injured, with 23 of the wounded being children. Later updates confirmed the death toll had risen to 16. Social media footage captured the immediate aftermath, showing rescuers tending to the injured while thick plumes of smoke rose from the damaged structure. A second drone struck the roof of the shopping centre roughly half an hour after the first, prompting Zelenskyy to accuse Russia of targeting emergency responders. Kryvyi Rih has been a frequent target of Russian attacks throughout the conflict, reflecting broader patterns of escalation in recent months. In addition to the Kryvyi Rih incident, four more people, including three children, were killed in a separate strike in the southern Mykolaiv region, according to Interior Minister Ivan Vygivsky. These attacks underscore the intensifying nature of Russian bombardments against Ukrainian urban centers. Zelenskyy expressed deep frustration with the ongoing violence, emphasizing the need for international solidarity and stronger measures against Russia. He called on global powers to apply “real pressure on the aggressor” and ensure “real accountability” for Moscow’s actions. His remarks came ahead of a meeting of Ukraine’s international allies, scheduled for Monday, which aims to reaffirm support for Kyiv amid rising tensions. The gathering, known as the “coalition of the willing,” will be co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron, UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Around 10 other leaders, including European Council President António Costa, are expected to attend the event in Kyiv. In a separate communication, Zelenskyy spoke with United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to provide updates on the latest Russian strikes and their impact on civilians. This dialogue reflects Kyiv’s continued efforts to secure international backing as it faces increasing challenges in countering Russian missile attacks. Ukrainian forces have struggled to intercept large-scale salvoes of ballistic missiles, prompting calls for enhanced military assistance from Western partners. The attack on the Kryvyi Rih shopping centre has reignited discussions about the humanitarian consequences of the war and the effectiveness of current diplomatic and military strategies. As Ukraine seeks greater support from its allies, the situation remains fluid, with further developments likely as both sides continue to assess the strategic implications of recent hostilities.