KYIV, Ukraine — A ballistic missile from Russia hit a residential building in Kryvyi Rih on Tuesday, resulting in the death of at least one individual, according to local officials.

Governor Serhii Lysak reported that a minimum of 11 others sustained injuries, and there may be additional victims trapped under the debris of the four-story apartment complex.

Footage shared on social media showed significant destruction, with one side of the building having nearly collapsed.

“Sadly, we are preparing ourselves for the worst news,” Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul stated in a message on his Telegram channel.

Just moments before this update, Ukraine’s air force had issued a warning regarding the potential for “ballistic missile strikes” in southern and central areas of the nation, later reporting the detection of a “high-speed” object heading toward Kryvyi Rih.

This missile attack coincided with Ukraine’s preparations to celebrate Christmas on December 25, marking the second occasion since the country shifted its public holiday date this year.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed legislation in July 2023 to align Ukraine’s Christmas celebrations with those of most European nations, moving it from the date traditionally observed in Russia.

This change was part of a broader effort to bolster Ukraine’s national identity in the wake of the ongoing invasion by Russia.

On social media, Dmytro Lubinets, Ukraine’s human rights ombudsman, lamented, “While countries around the globe commemorate Christmas, Ukrainians continue to endure relentless Russian assaults.”