Russia Launches Deadly Missile and Drone Attacks on Kyiv

Since the beginning of its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which has become the deadliest conflict in Europe since World War II, Russia has continued to carry out missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, including the capital, Kyiv.

This latest assault followed a warning from the Ukrainian Air Force about ballistic missiles approaching Kyiv. It also came shortly after President Volodymyr Zelensky cut short his visit to Dublin on Wednesday upon receiving intelligence reports indicating that Russia was preparing an imminent strike against Ukraine.

Residents in central and eastern Kyiv heard more than a dozen explosions, while some, including families with children and pets, rushed to metro stations serving as shelters.

Timur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration, stated on Telegram that the death toll from the Russian attack had risen to eight, with 25 others injured, including children. He condemned the deliberate targeting of residential areas and civilians.

Images released by the Ukrainian emergency services after the attacks showed extensive destruction to a residential complex.

Vitaliy Klitschko, Kyiv’s mayor, posted on Telegram that the city was under fire from ballistic missiles and drones, with explosions audible throughout the city.

The strikes resulted in one fatality and 11 injuries, according to statements from the mayor and city authorities issued separately on Telegram.

Mykola Kalashnyk, governor of Kyiv region, reported on Telegram that the attack caused fires and damage to buildings across the area. He noted the assault involved drones, ballistic missiles, and cruise missiles.

Emergency crews were battling fires in warehouses and a house in the Bucha district, while other homes, a student dormitory, and vehicles were also damaged in various parts of the region.

President Zelensky Urges Citizens to Seek Shelter

Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced he would return swiftly from Dublin after receiving intelligence about an impending large-scale Russian attack.

At a press conference, he called on Ukrainians to exercise extreme caution, protect themselves, their children, and families, and to take refuge in shelters.

Zelensky added that Russian President Vladimir Putin had been preparing for this major offensive for a long time.

Ukraine Escalates Drone Attacks Within Russia

In response, Ukraine has intensified its long-range drone strikes deep inside Russia in recent weeks, targeting energy infrastructure and military sites.

Russian officials reported repeated strikes in border regions, while Moscow stated that its air defenses intercepted hundreds of drones launched from Ukraine over the past few days.