Kyiv (HRNW)- Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, killing at least eight people and injuring more than 34, just hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned of a major Russian assault.
According to foreign media reports, the attacks were carried out on Thursday morning, with ballistic missiles and drones striking around three dozen locations across Kyiv.
At least eight people were killed in the attacks, while several residential buildings, commercial centers, and other facilities were damaged, according to Timur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv Military Administration.
Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said more than 34 people were injured, with some reported to be in critical condition. He added that several residents were trapped beneath the rubble of a nine-story residential building, while a large section of a high-rise apartment block collapsed after being directly hit by a missile.
During the assault, the Ukrainian Air Force warned that Russian ballistic missiles were rapidly approaching Kyiv, prompting emergency sirens across the city. Thousands of residents sought safety in underground metro stations and bomb shelters.
Eyewitnesses reported multiple explosions across different parts of the city, while fires broke out at several locations. Emergency responders and firefighters immediately launched rescue operations.
A few hours before the attack, President Volodymyr Zelensky cut short a visit to Ireland, citing intelligence reports that indicated Russia was preparing a major strike. He urged citizens to immediately respond to air raid alerts and ensure the safety of their families, especially children.
Zelensky accused Russia of not being serious about ending the war and continuing its military aggression. He said Ukraine remains engaged in diplomatic efforts, but claimed that Russia has shown no willingness to make meaningful progress toward peace.
Meanwhile, neighboring Poland scrambled fighter jets as a precaution during the attacks. Polish authorities later confirmed that no violations of Polish airspace had occurred.
According to analysts, the latest assault represents another escalation in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and raises further concerns about the worsening humanitarian situation as civilian areas continue to be affected.
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