Rescuers and police will continue working through the night at the sites of destruction in Ternopil, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said. The main task is to locate everyone who may still be trapped under the rubble after the Russian missile strike.
By the evening, authorities had received reports of 26 people missing in the destroyed building, including three children. Search efforts are ongoing.
The number of confirmed deaths has risen to 26, and nearly one hundred people have been injured. The building, where two entrances were completely burned out, no longer has a single intact apartment. Klymenko said the fire ignited instantly and engulfed the structure in a wave of flames. People tried to escape by jumping from windows, while rescuers evacuated residents using high-rise equipment. Nineteen people died from the fire.
Local residents are experiencing shock and despair after losing their homes. According to the minister, everyone left without shelter will be provided with temporary accommodation.
At the same time, expressions of gratitude continue to be voiced toward the rescuers who keep working despite extremely difficult and dangerous conditions. The search operation will continue until all rubble is examined and the whereabouts of every person are established.