KYIV
A relentless Russian aerial assault lasting over 12 hours has killed at least four people and injured more than 70 across Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky said. The victims included a 12-year-old girl, with the majority of projectiles targeting the capital, Kyiv. Nearly 600 drones and several dozen missiles struck seven regions, making it one of the heaviest barrages in recent months.
Zelensky described the attacks as “vile” and vowed Ukraine would retaliate, underscoring that Moscow seeks to continue its campaign of destruction. Among the targets were civilian infrastructure, including Kyiv’s Institute of Cardiology, where a nurse and a patient were killed, as well as apartment buildings, factories, and a large bakery. Other regions hit included Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Odesa. Zaporizhzhia alone saw 34 injuries, including three children, some in critical condition.
Ukraine’s Defence Minister Igor Klymenko reported damage to over 100 civilian sites nationwide, leaving entire neighborhoods in ruins. Air raid sirens sounded across Kyiv, prompting residents to seek shelter while anti-aircraft fire intercepted numerous drones.
Zelensky also called for strong international response, appealing to Europe and the United States to impose stricter sanctions and reduce Russian oil and gas imports. The attacks coincided with the UN General Assembly, highlighting Russia’s aggressive stance.
Meanwhile, NATO members, including Poland, Denmark, and Estonia, observed increased Russian drone activity near their territories, prompting enhanced surveillance and defensive measures. Kyiv’s strikes and NATO’s responses illustrate escalating tensions in Europe, as Russia continues to test air defenses while asserting no intent to attack EU or NATO states. The incident further emphasizes the humanitarian toll and geopolitical ramifications of Moscow’s ongoing war against Ukraine.