A massive Russia missile strike on Kyiv killed at least 18 people and injured more than 90 overnight as Moscow launched one of its largest aerial assaults on the Ukrainian capital this year. Ukrainian officials said Russia fired dozens of missiles and hundreds of drones, causing widespread destruction across residential neighbourhoods and critical infrastructure.
Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia launched 74 missiles and 496 drones during the overnight attack. Officials said the unusually high number of ballistic missiles overwhelmed parts of the country’s air defence system, which has been facing shortages of Patriot interceptor missiles in recent months.
The Russia missile strike on Kyiv damaged more than 20 locations across the capital, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Residential buildings, emergency service facilities and scientific institutions were among the sites hit. Rescue teams continued searching through collapsed buildings as authorities warned that additional victims could still be trapped beneath the rubble.
The Russian Defence Ministry said the operation targeted military facilities, energy infrastructure and airports using long-range precision weapons and drones. Moscow described the strikes as retaliation for recent Ukrainian drone attacks inside Russian territory, including reported strikes on energy facilities.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko declared a day of mourning after the attack, describing it as one of the most destructive assaults on the city in recent months. European Union Ambassador to Ukraine Katarina Mathernova said diplomatic accommodation was also damaged, although no diplomats were injured during the overnight bombardment.
The latest escalation has renewed international concern over Ukraine’s air defence capabilities. President Zelensky urged allies to accelerate military assistance, particularly the supply of Patriot air defence systems, saying additional support is essential to protect civilians from continuing missile attacks.
The Russia missile strike on Kyiv marks another major escalation in the more than four-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine. As both sides continue long-range attacks and diplomatic efforts remain stalled, international leaders are calling for stronger measures to reduce civilian casualties and restore regional stability.
