Fact Check: "Kyiv's largest aerial attack in 2025 leaves 15 dead and 124 injured."
What We Know
On June 17, 2025, Kyiv experienced a significant aerial attack involving both missiles and drones, resulting in substantial casualties. Initial reports indicated that at least 15 people had died in Kyiv, but this figure was later revised. According to various sources, the death toll increased to at least 23, with injuries reported to be over 100. Specifically, reports from the BBC and Reuters noted that the attack was one of the deadliest on Kyiv this year, with the Ukrainian Interior Minister stating that the total number of casualties could rise as rescue operations continued.
The attack involved a combination of 440 drones and 32 missiles, targeting various locations in the city, including residential buildings. The Ukrainian authorities confirmed that a ballistic missile struck a nine-story apartment building, leading to extensive damage and casualties. Reports indicated that more than 40 apartments were destroyed, and rescue efforts were hampered by ongoing explosions and the chaotic aftermath of the strikes (AP News, CNN).
Analysis
The claim that "Kyiv's largest aerial attack in 2025 leaves 15 dead and 124 injured" is misleading and inaccurate. While initial reports did mention 15 fatalities, subsequent updates from multiple credible news outlets, including the Kyiv Independent and CNN, indicated that the death toll had risen to at least 23, with injuries exceeding 134. The discrepancy in the numbers can be attributed to the chaotic nature of the situation, where initial counts often fluctuate as rescue operations progress and more information becomes available.
The sources reporting on this event are generally reliable, including major news agencies like the Associated Press, BBC, and Reuters, which have established reputations for accurate reporting. However, it is essential to note that the evolving nature of such incidents can lead to initial miscounts, as explained by Ukrainian officials who mentioned that body parts can complicate casualty assessments (BBC).
Conclusion
The claim that "Kyiv's largest aerial attack in 2025 leaves 15 dead and 124 injured" is False. The actual death toll was reported to be at least 23, with injuries exceeding 134. The initial figures were revised as more information became available during ongoing rescue operations. Therefore, the claim does not accurately reflect the situation on the ground.
Sources
- Overnight Russian attack on Ukraine kills 15 and injures 156
- Russia's deadliest attack on Kyiv for months flattens part of ...
- Russia kills at least 18 in strikes on Kyiv, other cities
- Get the Latest Ukraine News Today - Kyiv Post
- 'A brutal strike' — Massive Russian missile and drone ...
- Topic - Kyiv Post
- All News - Kyiv Post
- 16 killed in deadliest Russian strikes on Kyiv in almost a year
