The ARD studio in central Kyiv was severely damaged in the Russian drone and missile strike on 24 May. It was likely partially destroyed by a shockwave that shattered the windows and caused wall collapse. No staff members were in the studio during the attack, ARD reports.
The building’s structural integrity needs to be assessed. Despite the extensive damage, the team continues to work: production and live reporting will be ensured using mobile technologies and alternative locations.
Studio head Vasyl Holod said that the team would not stop working despite the damage.
“Torn-out window frames, shards of glass everywhere, destroyed equipment – seeing your own workplace completely devastated is a shock. The Russian airstrikes have been massive and ruthless for years and are part of the brutal reality of life in Ukraine. I have enormous respect for our team, which refuses to be intimidated by this aggression and remains fully focused on our mission: to report what is happening,” he commented.
The ARD studio is subordinate to WDR. Director General Katrin Vernau expressed her “great relief” that no employees were injured.
As previously reported, the Russian strike in Kyiv city overnight on 24 May 2026 damaged the offices of Realna Hazeta, Shelter, DW, and Graty.