Ukrainian mother shields children with body during drone strike in Kremenchuk

Kremenchuk, a major industrial city in central Ukraine, experienced a new wave of Russian strikes on 29 October. The attacks targeted residential infrastructure, causing significant casualties and injuries across the region.

Among those killed was a mother of two, identified locally as Anna. According to her sister, Inna Soloshenko, Anna did not have enough time to reach a shelter before the impact occurred. Instead, she positioned her body over her children to protect them.

The Russian forces used a drone to strike an apartment building in the city. The explosion ignited fires in parked cars and a nearby outbuilding. Three people died in the attack, and 32 residents sustained injuries. Six of the injured were children.

Medical officials transported nine injured individuals to hospitals for treatment. A 16-year-old boy and a 72-year-old man were reported to be in serious condition. The attack disrupted the daily lives of thousands in the Poltava region.

Inna Soloshenko spoke about the loss of her sister, describing Anna as the best, brightest, and kindest person she knew. She expressed deep gratitude for the help and love Anna provided during her lifetime. Soloshenko stated that she would do everything possible to ensure the children were happy.

The sister said she believed the children’s father was strong enough to support them through this difficult period. She expressed hope that their son, Yehor, would become a footballer, fulfilling a dream Anna had for him. She also noted that their daughter, Kseniia, would grow up to be a skilled baker and bring joy to those around her.

Anna’s funeral is scheduled for 31 October at 14:00. The ceremony will take place at the cemetery on Shevchenka Street in the village of Pohreby, near Kremenchuk. Local residents are expected to gather for the service.