EU condemns attack on its offices in Kyiv

The European Union has strongly condemned Russia’s latest assault on Ukraine, which struck an EU office in Kyiv

Russia launched one of the largest air attacks since the start of the war, firing more than 600 missiles at targets across the country overnight. At least 17 people were killed in Kyiv, including four children.

A building used by the EU mission to Ukraine was also damaged in the strike. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen issued a statement condemning the attack.

“I am outraged by the attack on Kyiv, which also hit our EU offices. This was the deadliest drone and missile assault since July. As you can see from the screen behind me, it was an attack on our delegation as well. I just spoke with our deputy ambassador and am relieved that none of our staff were harmed. Last night’s attack struck within close proximity of the diplomatic mission — the representation of our union. Two missiles landed within 200 meters in just 20 seconds. This is another grim reminder of what is at stake,” von der Leyen said.

She added that the strike showed Russia would “stop at nothing to terrorize Ukraine” and announced new measures to increase pressure on Moscow.

“This is why we are keeping maximum pressure on Russia. That means tightening our sanctions. We will soon present our nineteenth package of tough sanctions. In parallel, we are advancing work on frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction.”

Von der Leyen will travel on Friday to the seven EU member states bordering Russia and Belarus to express solidarity. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has also summoned Russia’s envoy in Brussels.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the assault on Kyiv highlighted Moscow’s disregard for civilian life.

“Russia showed its true colors again last night. We condemn the severe attacks against the civilian population in the strongest possible terms,” he wrote on X.

French President Emmanuel Macron called the attack “barbaric.”

The Croatian government also condemned the strikes, calling them “reckless” and stressing that civilians, including children, were among the victims.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wish a speedy recovery to the injured,” the government said in a post on X, adding that efforts to advance the peace process must not be jeopardized.