Russia launched its largest aerial assault on Ukraine overnight, targeting the capital Kyiv and other cities with over 800 drones and missiles. For the first time in the war, the main government building in Kyiv was hit, causing a fire and significant damage. At least two people were killed, including an infant, and 18 were injured in the attacks.
The Ukrainian Air Force reported that Russia deployed 810 drones, four ballistic missiles, and nine cruise missiles in the assault. While air defenses shot down most of the projectiles, 54 drones and nine missiles struck targets across Ukraine, surpassing the scale of previous attacks. The government building, housing the prime minister’s office and other ministries, suffered damage to its roof and upper floors, with rescuers working to extinguish the fire.
In Kyiv, residential areas were severely affected, with a nine-floor apartment building partially destroyed and fires breaking out in multiple multistory blocks. The body of a one-year-old child was recovered from rubble in the Sviatoshynskyi district, and a young woman was also killed there. Mayor Vitali Klitschko described the scene as devastating, with emergency services battling blazes and searching for survivors.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack as “vile” and a “deliberate crime,” accusing Russia of prolonging the war despite ongoing diplomatic efforts. He emphasized that the world has the means to stop the Kremlin’s actions with political will. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko confirmed that cities like Kryvyi Rih, Dnipro, Kremenchuk, and Odesa were also targeted, highlighting the widespread nature of the assault.
The attack comes amid recent statements from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who warned that Western troops in Ukraine would be considered legitimate targets. This escalation follows discussions among Ukraine’s allies about potential peacekeeping forces if a ceasefire is agreed upon. Zelensky pointed out that the timing of the attack undermines peace initiatives, including those led by the United States.
In response, Ukraine conducted counter-attacks on Russian energy facilities, targeting the Druzhba oil pipeline in the Bryansk region and an oil refinery in Krasnodar, causing fires but no casualties reported by Russian authorities. Ukraine’s Defense Minister Denys Shmygal announced plans to strengthen air defense capabilities and enhance strikes deep into Russian territory in the coming week.
Internationally, Poland activated its aircraft and air defense systems due to the proximity of the attacks to its border, ensuring the safety of its airspace. The Polish armed forces raised their readiness level, reflecting the regional tension sparked by Russia’s aggressive actions.
The unprecedented scale of this attack signals a intensification of Russia’s military campaign, with implications for the ongoing conflict and international diplomacy. Ukraine vows to rebuild and continue its defense, while the world watches for further developments and potential responses from allied nations.