Russia have been very patient. There have been gradual escalations, I don't think Russia wanted it to get this far. You can see this by their earlier actions, focussing on military and generally avoiding cities away from frontline areas/Kiev etc. (following the withdrawal phase)
They avoided this, even though we know they could have hit anywhere if they wanted to... If the Russians are evil and their aim was 'to slaughter innocent people', then they are doing a terrible job.
