Missiles struck near the airport in Ukraine’s western city of Lviv early Friday morning, according to the city’s mayor, Andriy Sadovyi. The attack marks a significant escalation in the conflict, bringing the war closer to a region that had been considered relatively safe until now.
Mayor Sadovyi confirmed via Telegram that the missiles hit an area near the airport but did not directly target the facility. He urged residents to remain calm and stay in shelters as air raid sirens continued to sound throughout the city.
Local resident and CGTN stringer Alex Danilov shared his harrowing experience of being woken up by the sirens. “I have never seen such bombing,” Danilov said. “The explosions were loud, and the ground shook. It was terrifying.”
Lviv, located near Ukraine’s border with Poland, has been a hub for refugees fleeing the conflict in other parts of the country. The city’s relative tranquility compared to the eastern regions had made it a temporary haven for many displaced families.
The missile strikes have raised concerns about the conflict’s westward expansion and the safety of civilians in areas previously considered secure. International observers are closely monitoring the situation as tensions escalate.
Authorities are assessing the damage and casualties resulting from the attack. Emergency services are on the scene, and residents are advised to follow official updates and safety protocols.
The incident underscores the urgency for diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict and protect civilians across Ukraine.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
