Russian Strike on Kyiv Arms Exhibition Kills 10, Wounds Many; Probe Ordered

At least 10 people were killed and around 100 injured when a Russian missile struck an arms exhibition near Kyiv on Friday, Ukrainian officials confirmed. The attack has prompted a criminal investigation into the decision to hold the event under martial law.

Ukraine's Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravchenko announced a probe to determine who authorised the gathering and whether proper risk assessments were conducted. The strike, which used a ballistic missile according to President Volodymyr Zelensky, hit a shooting range hosting the event.

An AFP reporter at the scene observed at least five bodies covered in black sheets. Promotional tents and drones were still on display, and a video advertisement from a weapons company continued playing.

Russia claimed it targeted an exposition showcasing Ukrainian and foreign-made unmanned aerial vehicles used to strike civilian targets inside Russian territory. Throughout the war, Russia has repeatedly struck Ukrainian military training grounds and events.

In his nightly address, President Zelensky condemned the gathering, stating, 'In such wartime conditions and against such an enemy, it is absolutely impossible to hold any arms exhibitions — with large crowds of people, and certainly not near residential buildings.'

The attack drew strong criticism from Ukraine's defence industry and officials. Presidential advisor Sergiy Beskrestnov criticised organisers for failing to provide shelters and promoting the event on social media. Andriy Grytseniuk, head of state-backed defence group Brave1, urged all defence industry participants to urgently review and strengthen safety protocols.

Local official Alla Lakhmaniuk expressed anger, saying the municipality had not granted permission for the event. 'Everyone is very upset that such an event was held right next to residential housing… If you are going to hold such events, they must be in a safe place,' she told AFP.

Residential buildings beside the shooting range suffered significant damage. Natalia Perevalova, whose roof was destroyed and windows blown out, expressed gratitude that her grandchildren were not home at the time. Debris and burned apples from a tree lay scattered across the ground.

Ukraine's investigation will seek to establish accountability for the tragedy. The incident highlights the persistent dangers civilian gatherings face in conflict zones, even as the war continues.