Russian Missile Strikes Kryvyi Rih as US Halts Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine

The recent cessation of US military and intelligence support coincides with intensified Russian attacks on civilian targets in Ukraine.

KYIV — Following the United States' decision to cease intelligence sharing with Ukraine, the Russian military launched a missile strike on Kryvyi Rih, the hometown of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, resulting in the deaths of at least four individuals and injuring more than 30 others.

The attack occurred on the night of the U.S. announcement, specifically targeting a hotel located in a densely populated civilian area.

President Zelenskyy confirmed in a statement that a ballistic missile struck the establishment, which had recently accommodated volunteers from a humanitarian organization, including citizens from Ukraine, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Fortunately, the volunteers were able to evacuate before the missile hit, preserving their lives.

The confirmed fatalities of the attack included individuals residing in nearby residential buildings, as the blast damaged not only the hotel but also caused structural harm to 14 residential properties, two schools, two kindergartens, a post office, and various businesses.

Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul reported that of the 30 individuals injured, a 13-year-old girl was among them.

He reported that 28 people were hospitalized, with three in extremely serious condition and an additional 11 classified as serious.

The Russian Defense Ministry has yet to issue a statement regarding the strike.

This escalation follows the recent U.S. decision to halt military aid and intelligence support aimed at encouraging Ukraine to engage in peace negotiations based on U.S.-proposed terms, which reportedly do not include security guarantees from Washington.

The cessation of intelligence sharing comes as the Russian military intensifies its drone and missile assaults on Ukraine, further straining Kyiv's air defense resources.

In addition to Kryvyi Rih, regions such as Kharkiv, Odesa, and Sumy also suffered attacks.

The Ukrainian Air Force reported successfully intercepting 68 out of 112 Russian drones, although missile strikes went unmitigated by defenses.

Historically, U.S. intelligence support has been crucial for Ukraine’s defense operations, significantly enhancing the nation’s ability to navigate and respond to missile threats.

Paul Grod, president of the Ukrainian World Congress, emphasized the critical nature of this intelligence in protecting civilian lives, stating that timely updates can mean the difference between safety and disaster for families amid ongoing hostilities.