San Diego resident shares experience after witnessing attack in Ukraine

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — A massive Russian air attack on Kyiv last week killed at least 23 people, including children, and damaged a residential building along with the European Union’s delegation offices. Ukrainian officials say nearly 540 drones and 45 missiles were launched in the strike.

Among those on the ground was Mira Rubin, a San Diego native delivering aid when the attacks hit.

Rubin, working with her nonprofit Shield of Freedom, was delivering first aid kits made by San Diego locals to the front lines.

While on her mission, the strikes hit just a few blocks from where she was staying.

“I really thought it was in our neighborhood, it was so loud, like thunder multiplied by 100,” she recalled.

Rubin says at least four children were among the victims of the attack.

Ukrainian officials reported nearly 500 drones and 45 missiles were launched, killing at least 23 people. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Trump was “not happy about this news, but also not surprised.”

The attack occurred as the United States continues efforts to negotiate peace between Ukraine and Russia.

Rubin says she and other San Diego volunteers will continue helping those on the front lines, even at personal risk.

“I’m doing my best. I’m very happy. I’m here to help in whatever way I can to save these lives,” Rubin said.

Rubin encourages anyone in San Diego who wants to help to contact Shield of Freedom, which organizes events to support those on the front lines in Ukraine.