At least 13 people have been killed after Russia carried out a large-scale overnight missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, according to Ukrainian officials.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy had earlier warned that Russia was preparing a “massive” strike. Hours later, explosions rocked several parts of Kyiv as missiles and drones hit residential areas, hotels, civilian infrastructure and emergency facilities.
Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia launched 74 missiles and 496 drones, with air defence systems intercepting most of them. However, 25 ballistic missiles and 12 drones struck 33 locations, causing widespread destruction. Officials said more than 30 people were injured, including children, while rescue teams pulled at least 34 survivors from damaged buildings.
Kyiv military administration head Tymur Tkachenko accused Russia of deliberately targeting civilians. Russia’s Defence Ministry said the strikes were aimed at energy and military facilities in response to recent Ukrainian attacks on Russian infrastructure.
The attack was Russia’s first major missile and drone assault on Ukraine in more than two weeks. It came as fighting continues on the frontline, with Russia pushing in eastern Ukraine while Kyiv says it has regained territory and disrupted Russian supply routes.
Ukraine has renewed calls for more air defence systems and tougher sanctions on Russia as rescue operations continue across Kyiv.
