At least 11 people have been killed and dozens more injured after Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone assault on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, striking more than 20 locations just days before a key NATO summit.
According to Ukrainian authorities, the overnight barrage targeted residential neighborhoods, commercial buildings and critical infrastructure across the city. Rescue workers spent hours searching through damaged buildings as emergency crews battled fires and evacuated survivors from the rubble. Officials said children were among those affected, while hospitals received scores of injured civilians.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that multiple districts suffered significant damage, with debris from intercepted missiles and drones also causing destruction. Air raid sirens sounded for several hours as Ukraine’s air defense systems attempted to repel the attack, though several projectiles penetrated the country’s defenses and struck populated areas. Authorities reported damage to homes, office buildings, transport infrastructure and energy facilities.
The strike comes on the eve of the NATO summit, where allied leaders are expected to discuss additional military assistance, air defense support and long-term security guarantees for Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, calling it another deliberate assault on civilians and urging Western partners to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.
Russia has intensified long-range missile and drone attacks in recent weeks as fighting continues along multiple frontlines. Moscow has maintained that its operations target military-related infrastructure, while Ukraine says residential areas are increasingly bearing the brunt of the bombardments.
World leaders have condemned the latest attack, warning that the escalation underscores the urgent need for continued international support for Ukraine. Analysts believe the timing of the strikes is intended to send a strategic message ahead of the NATO meeting, where Russia’s ongoing invasion will dominate discussions among alliance members.
