Shock and horror after Russia’s wave of strikes across Ukraine

Wave after wave of explosions have been heard over the past few hours, not just in Kyiv but all over this huge nation, from Lviv in the west to Kharkiv in the east and Odesa in the south.

There is a sense of déjà vu for those of us who were present when Russia’s extensive invasion started in February. It has been advised that we spend as much time as possible in the basement because more strikes with missiles and drones are anticipated.

However, this is also unique. The explosions in Kyiv are substantially more nearby the city’s centre. Loud reverberations near streets and places we’ve gotten to know well over the previous eight months, not far-off thumps from the suburbs.

It’s hard to know what is being targeted, but according to a statement from Ukraine’s ministry of culture, the Philharmonic building and museums were both struck.

A large crater at a playground was visible in one of the social media videos going around. Another displayed a missile striking Mayor Vitali Klitschko’s glass bridge, a well-liked tourist destination and vantage point across the Dnipro River.

Living in an apartment with a view of the playground in Shevchenko Park is Olena and Valerii Badakh.

“It was gruesome. Our lives suddenly had a gaping hole in them. It was awful, “Olena informed me.

Two days ago, when Ukrainians joyously applauded the attack on the bridge connecting Russia with the Crimean Peninsula, social media was swamped with videos and memes.

These days, all the films show shell-shocked locals, burning rubble, and dire warnings.

Even when it seems expected, the shock is still present.

Picture Courtesy: Google/images are subject to copyright