A gunman was shot dead by police after barricading himself inside a supermarket in Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed on Tuesday, stating that 10 people had been hospitalised following the incident.
The attack occurred at a grocery store in the city’s Solomenskyi district, where the assailant entered armed and began firing, prompting shoppers and staff to flee or take cover. Emergency services responded within minutes, establishing a perimeter around the building as police negotiators attempted to engage the suspect.
After a prolonged standoff lasting approximately two hours, tactical units moved in and neutralised the gunman. Authorities have not released his identity or motive, stating that the investigation remains active and that forensic teams are examining the scene and reviewing surveillance footage.
President Zelensky addressed the nation in a televised statement, expressing condolences to the victims and their families while praising the swift response of law enforcement and medical personnel. He emphasized that all available resources were being deployed to ensure public safety and to determine whether the act was isolated or connected to broader security threats.
The hospitalised victims, ranging in age from 22 to 67, are receiving treatment for gunshot wounds and trauma. Medical officials confirmed that none of the injuries are life-threatening, though several patients remain in intensive care for observation.
Ukraine’s Interior Ministry has increased patrols in commercial centres across Kyiv and issued a temporary directive for enhanced security screening at public venues. No further threats have been identified, and officials continue to urge vigilance while maintaining that there is no indication of a coordinated attack.
The prosecutor’s office has opened a criminal proceedings under charges of terrorism and attempted mass murder, with investigators reviewing the suspect’s digital footprint and personal history for any signs of extremist affiliations or prior warnings.
As of Wednesday morning, the supermarket remains closed off as part of the active crime scene, with authorities stating that it will remain sealed until the investigation concludes. No timeline has been provided for its reopening.
