Ukraine Detains Suspect After Deadly Explosions in Lviv Kill Police Officer, Injure Dozens

22 February 2026 World

LVIV, Ukraine — Ukrainian authorities have detained a 33-year-old suspect in connection with a deadly terrorist attack that rocked central Lviv early Sunday morning, killing a police officer and injuring 25 others. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced the arrest on social media, confirming that Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported the suspect’s detention as part of ongoing investigations.

The attack unfolded shortly after midnight when police responded to a reported break-in at a store on Danylyshyn Street. Upon arrival, officers were met with a devastating explosion caused by improvised explosive devices hidden in garbage bins, according to statements from Ukraine’s National Police on their official Telegram channel. A second blast followed, compounding the chaos in the downtown area.

The explosion claimed the life of a 23-year-old police officer and injured 25 civilians and law enforcement personnel. Emergency services rushed the wounded to nearby hospitals, where they are receiving treatment. The incident has been officially classified as a terrorist attack by Ukrainian officials.

President Zelenskyy expressed his condolences to the family of the fallen officer and assured the public that all necessary resources have been allocated to the investigation. “The required procedural actions involving the detainee are ongoing,” he said, promising further updates from the Ministry of Internal Affairs as the situation develops.

The suspect, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, was apprehended following a coordinated operation by Ukrainian security forces. Authorities are conducting thorough interrogations and forensic examinations to determine the full scope of the attack and any possible accomplices.

This incident comes amid heightened tensions in Ukraine, where security forces remain vigilant against threats to public safety. The use of improvised explosive devices in public spaces underscores the persistent risks faced by civilians and law enforcement alike.

Ukraine’s response to this attack aligns with international counterterrorism efforts, as outlined by agencies such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Homeland Security, which emphasize rapid response and interagency cooperation in the face of terrorist threats.

As the investigation continues, Ukrainian authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The Ministry of Internal Affairs has also increased security measures in major cities to prevent further attacks.

For detailed updates and official statements, the public is encouraged to follow communications from the National Police of Ukraine and the Office of the President. This attack serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in maintaining security amid regional instability.

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Sofia Martinez covers film, television, streaming and internet culture. At TRN, she explores how entertainment reflects and shapes politics, identity and generational change.
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