Russian forces launched a massive attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region with ballistic missiles and drones, killing at least 17 people and wounding over 45 others. The assault, which began after midnight on Wednesday, is among the deadliest on the Ukrainian capital this year.
Residential buildings, a railway station, and warehouses were hit, sparking fires across an area of approximately 230,000 square meters. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko expressed fears that people could be trapped under the rubble, as emergency services worked to extinguish blazes at five locations.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that interceptors "could have saved lives," criticizing allies for delays in delivering US-made Patriot missile systems. He emphasized that the lack of anti-ballistic defenses leads to "horrific casualties and destruction."
The Russian defense ministry claimed it had struck logistics hubs and supply centers in Kyiv and the region, allegedly involved in storing and delivering weapons and producing drones. It also reported hitting three cargo vessels near the Black Sea port of Odesa, purportedly transporting military equipment.
Ukraine's air force reported that Russia launched 24 ballistic missiles and four anti-ship missiles, along with 115 drones. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 98 drones, but none of the missiles were shot down, according to official statements.
The attack has heightened tensions, with Russia intensifying strikes on Kyiv in recent weeks, while Ukraine has targeted Russian infrastructure, including warehouses. In Russia's Tula region, a drone crashed into a Wildberries warehouse, causing a fire and one injury, as reported by Governor Dmitry Milyaev.
Ukraine also condemned a video from Kherson showing a civilian being chased by a drone, calling it a deliberate "hunt" and "safari" targeting civilians. Both sides have denied intentionally targeting civilians, though accusations continue to mount.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced that the EU has received €1.4 billion from immobilized Russian assets, which will be used to support Ukraine in its war effort. The funds are part of broader international efforts to assist Kyiv amid ongoing hostilities.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk