Russia unleashed a barrage of missiles and drones on Kyiv early Thursday, killing at least two people, wounding 16, and starting fires in residential and commercial sections of the Ukrainian capital.
The midnight attack occurred as the United States resumed military delivery to Ukraine, including artillery ammunition and mobile rocket systems.
According to Ukrainian officials, Russia fired 18 missiles and over 400 drones in the most recent escalation.
“Residential buildings, vehicles, warehouses, and office spaces are on fire,” stated Tymur Tkachenko, director of Kyiv’s military administration, via Telegram.
The intensive shelling, part of an increasing pattern of nocturnal attacks, has put additional strain on Ukraine’s already overburdened air defense systems, forcing thousands of residents into bomb shelters.
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Moscow has yet to comment on the latest strikes. However, Russian state media reported that its defense forces intercepted 14 Ukrainian drones overnight.
The renewed attack comes as U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Ukraine’s defense.
Trump has recently expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, criticising his unwillingness to engage meaningfully in peace talks.
Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Kuala Lumpur during an ASEAN summit to discuss de-escalation efforts.
Thursday’s attack severely impacted eight out of ten districts in Kyiv.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported air raid sirens blared for over four hours. A blanket of smoke clouded the early morning sky over Kyiv’s three million residents.
As the war continues, international attention is focused on the approaching sanctions package and diplomatic meetings, despite the fact that the civilian toll continues to rise.
