Kyiv: At least 13 people were killed and 86 others injured after Russia launched one of its largest missile and drone attacks on the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, early Thursday, intensifying the conflict that has continued for more than four years.
According to Beyond Time News, the overnight assault struck residential neighborhoods across the city, damaging apartment buildings and forcing thousands of residents to seek shelter in underground metro stations and basements as explosions echoed through the capital.
The attack came only hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that intelligence reports indicated Russia was preparing a large-scale strike.
Residential Areas Hit in Overnight Barrage
Witnesses reported hearing repeated explosions throughout the night as missiles and drones targeted multiple locations in Kyiv.
Several apartment buildings suffered severe damage, with emergency crews working through the rubble to rescue survivors and recover victims.
Smoke rose over parts of the city as firefighters battled blazes caused by the strikes.
According to Beyond Time News, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that at least 13 people lost their lives, while 86 others were wounded.
Emergency responders continued search and rescue operations, raising concerns that the casualty figure could increase.
Ukraine Calls for More Air Defense Support
Following the attack, Ukrainian officials renewed appeals for additional air defense systems from international partners.
Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha described the assault as a “night of horror” and urged allied countries to accelerate decisions on supplying air defense equipment.
Officials argue that strengthening Ukraine’s air defense network remains essential for protecting civilians and critical infrastructure from continued missile and drone attacks.
Hundreds of Missiles and Drones Launched
Ukraine’s Air Force reported that Russia launched 496 drones and 74 missiles, including ballistic missiles that are more difficult to intercept.
Military officials said Ukrainian air defense systems intercepted:
- 48 missiles
- 476 drones
Despite these interceptions, several projectiles reached their targets, causing widespread destruction in residential districts.
Russia’s Ministry of Defense later confirmed carrying out what it described as a “massive strike” on Kyiv, saying the operation was conducted in response to recent Ukrainian attacks inside Russian territory.
Residents Spend the Night in Shelters
As air raid sirens sounded across Kyiv, thousands of residents sought refuge in underground metro stations and building shelters.
Families with children, elderly residents, and pet owners spent hours underground waiting for the attacks to end.
According to Beyond Time News, many residents described the experience as frightening, particularly for young children awakened by repeated explosions and emergency sirens.
Medical teams and emergency workers remained deployed throughout the city to assist injured civilians and respond to damaged buildings.
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Zelensky Warned of Incoming Attack
Before the overnight strikes, President Volodymyr Zelensky had urged Ukrainians to remain vigilant.
He advised citizens to respond immediately to air raid alerts and use designated shelters whenever warnings were issued.
The Ukrainian president said intelligence assessments suggested Russia had been preparing a large-scale attack for some time.
Following the strikes, Zelensky again accused Moscow of continuing its military campaign despite ongoing international diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the conflict.
Conflict Continues Despite Diplomatic Efforts
The war between Russia and Ukraine remains Europe’s largest armed conflict since the Second World War.
In recent weeks, Ukraine has expanded long-range drone operations targeting military and energy facilities inside Russia.
Russian authorities have also reported intercepting hundreds of Ukrainian drones in border regions, reflecting the growing use of unmanned aerial systems by both sides.
Despite multiple international initiatives, diplomatic efforts to negotiate a ceasefire or lasting peace agreement have so far produced limited progress.
Humanitarian Impact of the War
The continuing conflict has caused widespread humanitarian suffering, including civilian casualties, displacement, and extensive damage to infrastructure.
Homes, schools, hospitals, and energy facilities have repeatedly come under attack during the war, disrupting daily life for millions of people.
International organizations continue to call for the protection of civilians and adherence to international humanitarian law as hostilities persist.
Looking Ahead
Security officials expect air raid alerts to remain frequent as fighting continues.
Ukraine is likely to continue seeking additional military and humanitarian assistance from its international partners, particularly in strengthening air defense capabilities.
At the same time, global attention remains focused on whether renewed diplomatic engagement can help reduce hostilities and move both sides toward meaningful negotiations.
For now, residents across Ukraine continue to face the daily challenges of living under the threat of missile and drone attacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people were killed in the latest attack on Kyiv?
At least 13 people were killed, while 86 others were injured, according to city officials.
What weapons were used in the attack?
Ukraine said Russia launched 496 drones and 74 missiles, including ballistic missiles.
Why is Ukraine requesting more air defense systems?
Ukrainian officials say stronger air defenses are needed to better protect civilians and critical infrastructure from missile and drone attacks.
Did Ukraine intercept the incoming missiles and drones?
Yes. Ukraine’s Air Force reported intercepting 48 missiles and 476 drones, although several still struck targets in Kyiv.
Has the conflict between Russia and Ukraine ended?
No. Fighting continues despite ongoing international diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire and negotiate a peaceful resolution.
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