4 killed by shelling in Ukraine’s capital Kyiv: Authorities

By David Kachkacisvili

KYIV, Ukraine (AA) - At least four people were killed as shelling hit a shopping mall in Ukraine’s capital Kyiv, local authorities said on late Sunday.

"Four people died on the spot, one person was injured. The information is being clarified," the Main Department of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Kyiv said on Facebook.

A fire erupted in the parking lot, and third and fourth floors of the shopping center, located in the Podilskyi district, as a result of the shelling by Russian forces, said Ukraine’s state news agency Ukrinform.

According to UN estimates, at least 902 civilians have been killed and around 1,459 injured in Ukraine since Russia launched a war on its western neighbor on Feb. 24.

The UN has said the real figures are likely to be much higher as conditions on the ground make verification difficult.

UN data shows over 3.38 million refugees have fled from Ukraine since the war began, while some 6.5 million are estimated to be internally displaced in the country.

* Written and contributed by Ahmet Gencturk in Ankara