Russia-Ukraine War: ‘Double-Tap’ Drone Strike Hits Ukraine Shopping Centre, 16 Killed

At least 16 people were killed and around 130 others wounded after a Russian drone attack struck a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, in an incident Ukrainian authorities have described as a devastating and deliberate attack.

The strike has drawn international attention because Ukrainian officials accused Russia of carrying out a “double-tap” attack, in which a second strike allegedly targets people responding to an initial attack.

Shopping Centre Hit in Kryvyi Rih

The initial drone strike reportedly struck a shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih, the hometown of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The attack caused significant casualties, with Ukrainian authorities reporting at least 16 deaths and approximately 130 injuries.

Emergency responders were deployed to the scene to assist victims and deal with the damage caused by the attack.

Ukraine Accuses Russia of ‘Double-Tap’ Attack

Ukrainian officials accused Russian forces of launching a second strike after the initial attack.

Such an attack is commonly described as a “double-tap” strike, where a follow-up attack is allegedly aimed at emergency responders, civilians or others who arrive at the location of the first strike.

Ukraine's president condemned the incident as a “cowardly and deliberate” attack and accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians and those involved in rescue efforts.

Heavy Casualties Reported

The reported death toll of at least 16 people and roughly 130 injured makes the incident one of the more serious attacks reported in the area.

Emergency teams continued working at the site as authorities assessed the damage and searched for victims.

The attack has also renewed concerns about the risks faced by civilians and emergency personnel during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Zelenskyy Condemns Attack

Zelenskyy strongly criticised the strike and called for greater international pressure on Russia.

The Ukrainian president has repeatedly urged international partners to strengthen support for Ukraine's air-defence capabilities as Russian drone and missile attacks continue to threaten cities across the country.

Investigation Underway

Ukrainian authorities are continuing to assess the full impact of the attack, including the circumstances surrounding the reported second strike.

The claims regarding the “double-tap” attack are allegations from Ukrainian authorities and should be distinguished from independently verified facts while investigations continue.

The incident adds to the growing toll of civilian casualties amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.