For decades, the market was a well-known spot for the capital’s book lovers, collectors, and second-hand book dealers
The renowned Pochaina Book Market in Kyiv was devastated as a result of a Russian attack on August 16th. Following the strike and a large-scale fire, the trade pavilions suffered extensive damage, as reported by “Glavkom” citing the State Emergency Service and Yuriy Tandit.
The released footage reveals the scale of the Russian attack’s aftermath. Flames engulfed the book market’s trade pavilions, with some structures burning out and collapsing. Rescuers were working at the scene of the blaze.
❗️Rescuers are tackling the aftermath of the attack at the book market in Kyiv
Several rows of the trade pavilion have burned down. Many others have damaged windows. pic.twitter.com/40ZvqI1SV7
— ГЛАВКОМ (@GLAVCOM_UA) August 16, 2026
Among the ruined stalls, dozens of burnt and damaged books lie scattered on the ground. One frame shows publications that survived the fire only partially. Other books are strewn amidst the debris of destroyed trading spots.
Consequences of the strike on Kyiv Photo: Yuriy Tandit 
Some books survived Photo: Yuriy Tandit 
Legendary market destroyed as a result of RF attack Photo: Yuriy Tandit 
Fire after enemy strike Photo: State Emergency Service 
Market after large-scale fire Photo: State Emergency Service
The Pochaina Book Market has been a familiar landmark for Kyiv residents for decades. New and used books, rare editions were sold there, and the place was popular among second-hand book dealers, collectors, and literature enthusiasts.
We remind you that as a result of the Russian attack on August 16th, fires broke out in several districts of Kyiv, and hits and damage to buildings were recorded. The most significant consequences were in the Obolonskyi district of the capital. Destruction was also recorded in the Holosiivskyi district. As of 08:29, three people were reported injured.
On the night of August 16th, Russia carried out a large-scale combined attack on Ukraine. The enemy used missiles of various types and 106 drones, with Kyiv, Kremenchuk, and Kryvyi Rih coming under fire. In particular, Russian troops launched Onyx anti-ship missiles, Iskander-M/S-400/KN-23 ballistic missiles, and Kh-59/69 guided air missiles.