Russia launches 'double tap' drone attack on Ukrainian shopping mall... at least 16 dead
- Input
- 2026-08-23 05:54:55
- Updated
- 2026-08-23 05:54:55
Russia carried out two rounds of drone strikes on a shopping mall in Ukraine late on the night of the 21st local time, killing at least 16 people.
According to the Financial Times on the 22nd, Russia used the so-called 'double tap' tactic, striking twice and causing heavy casualties, including among those who rushed in to help the victims.
Local authorities said at least 16 people were killed and more than 130 were injured, including 23 children.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Ukraine's State Emergency Service said Russian drones struck a shopping mall in the south-central city of Kryvyi Rih during the busiest time of day.
Zelenskyy said Russia targeted his hometown and criticized the attack, saying, "The drones struck in two waves. The second attack came 30 minutes after the first strike and targeted rescue workers."
Throughout the war, Russia has used the so-called 'double tap' tactic. It involves waiting briefly after an initial strike before launching a second attack to maximize casualties.
Zelenskyy condemned the attack as "absolutely ruthless and vile" and declared that Ukraine would "certainly retaliate."
He said the attack was "no different from the acts of terrorists" and urged the world to "respond appropriately" and "apply real pressure" on Russia to end the war.
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed in an interview with state television aired on the 22nd that attacks on Ukrainian cities would continue.
Putin said Ukraine had "opened Pandora's box" by expanding attacks on Russian infrastructure, adding that Russia would intensify its response. He also taunted Kyiv, saying, "If you want to destroy our logistics, go ahead. You do not need to wait for our military response."
He also said he had rejected a ceasefire proposal offered by Ukraine through back-channel talks, adding that Ukraine's proposals were "sometimes unrealistic and unacceptable."
[email protected] Song Kyung-jae Reporter