In a significant escalation of hostilities, Russia has executed a large-scale missile and drone attack on Kyiv, resulting in the deaths of at least nine individuals and injuries to 46 others, including five children, according to Ukrainian authorities. The assault, which occurred early Monday, has prompted ongoing rescue operations as officials caution that the number of casualties may increase.
The intense overnight bombardment caused extensive damage to residential areas throughout the Ukrainian capital. Emergency services reported that at least 15 apartment buildings were either damaged or completely destroyed. Notably, a nine-story residential block in Kyiv’s Podilskyi district was heavily affected, with rescue teams actively working to extricate people trapped beneath the debris.
Additionally, the attack claimed another life in the Bucha district, located northwest of Kyiv. Russia’s Defense Ministry acknowledged the strike, describing it as a “massive” operation utilizing long-range missiles and drones. The Ministry stated that the targets included military, energy, and airfield infrastructure in Kyiv and several other Ukrainian regions.
This latest assault follows closely on the heels of another major Russian strike that occurred just days prior, which resulted in at least 27 fatalities in Kyiv, marking one of the most lethal attacks on the city this year. The intensified aggression underscores the ongoing conflict and the severe impact on civilian areas.
Amidst these developments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has addressed the ongoing fighting in the Donetsk region, specifically around the strategic town of Kostyantynivka. He refuted Russian claims of capturing the town, affirming that battles continue in the area.