Missile Strike in Kyiv Damages Home of European Rhythmic Gymnastics Medalist Eva Meleshchuk

A Night of Horror in Kyiv

According to Главком: On June 15, 2026, a Russian missile attack struck a residential building in Kyiv where 2023 European vice-champion in rhythmic gymnastics, Eva Meleshchuk, resides. The athlete shared the news on her Instagram blog. The assault claimed five lives and left over 30 people injured, including two children aged 5 and 6. This incident highlights the ongoing toll on civilians amid the war in Ukraine, where even prominent figures like Meleshchuk are not spared from the violence.

What Happened

The Russian missile barrage occurred overnight on June 15, while Meleshchuk was sheltering. A ballistic missile landed near the residential complex housing her apartment, though her unit remained undamaged. Another missile destroyed a building adjacent to the complex, targeting civilian infrastructure. The attack underscores the indiscriminate nature of the conflict, which continues to disrupt daily life for ordinary citizens.

'This is literally our home. The most terrifying night of my life. We moved here recently and spent years dreaming of settling here forever. Our apartment is intact, we are alive and safe – thank God.' Eva Meleshchuk

Meleshchuk described the aftermath: 'The parking entrance is damaged, elevators are destroyed, and on level -2, the ceiling partially collapsed due to the shockwave. There are injured people. Everything around is burning, filled with smoke and shattered glass.'

Eva Meleshchuk won silver in team events at the 2023 European Championships, is the 2019 Universiade champion in clubs, and earned bronze in hoop and ribbon routines. She expressed her anguish following the attack, stating:

'15.06.2026. Our home. I hate Russia and everyone who supports it.' Eva Meleshchuk

According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SES), as of 11:10 AM, five people had died and over 30 were injured in Kyiv as a result of the attack.

This tragic event underscores the relentless violence in Ukraine, affecting not only military personnel but also civilians. The strike on residential areas illustrates how the war directly upends the lives of peaceful citizens, who become victims of the conflict. The situation in Ukraine remains tense, with news of such attacks fueling widespread concern, particularly among young athletes who represent the country on the global stage.

The recent missile attack not only affected Eva Meleshchuk but also raised concerns about the ongoing safety of athletes and civilians in Ukraine. As the conflict escalates, other notable figures have also faced similar threats. For instance, you can read about the damage inflicted on the home of another European rhythmic gymnastics vice-champion, Yeva Meleshchuk, in a separate incident that highlights the perilous situation in the region.