The overnight assault has left at least nine people dead and more than 80 injured, including children.

Zelensky confirmed in a post on X that he would return to Ukraine immediately after his meeting with SA President Cyril Ramaphosa. His visit, initially intended to bolster diplomatic ties, was abruptly curtailed due to the severity of the attack.

The Ukrainian leader reported that rescue operations were underway in Kyiv, with authorities working to provide aid and assess the widespread damage caused by the strike. Despite the ongoing crisis, Zelensky remains committed to his diplomatic efforts on the global stage.

--ChannelAfrica--