Russia Launches Major Ballistic Missile Attack on Kyiv

Russia launched one of its largest ballistic missile attacks on Kyiv early Sunday, targeting Ukraine’s capital with a barrage of missiles and drones that triggered explosions across the city, damaged residential and commercial buildings and forced residents to seek shelter.

Ukraine’s Air Force said Russian forces fired multiple ballistic missiles alongside waves of attack drones during the overnight assault. Air defence systems intercepted many of the incoming projectiles, but several missiles penetrated the city’s defences, causing damage in a number of districts.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said emergency services were dispatched to multiple impact sites after debris and missile strikes sparked fires and damaged buildings. Officials reported casualties, although the full number of those killed or injured was still being verified as rescue operations continued. Residents were urged to remain in shelters while air raid alerts remained in effect.

The attack formed part of a broader Russian offensive targeting several regions across Ukraine. Ukrainian military officials said the strikes were aimed at critical infrastructure and urban centres, while Russia has maintained that its operations target military and strategic facilities.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the assault, describing it as another attempt to terrorise civilians and weaken Ukraine’s resolve. He renewed calls for Western allies to provide additional air defence systems and long range weapons to help protect Ukrainian cities from increasingly frequent missile attacks.

The latest bombardment comes as fighting continues along the front lines in eastern and southern Ukraine, with both sides reporting intensified military operations. Analysts say Russia has increasingly relied on ballistic missiles and drones to overwhelm Ukraine’s air defences and place sustained pressure on major cities.

International leaders condemned the latest strikes and reiterated their support for Ukraine, while humanitarian organisations warned that continued attacks on populated areas are worsening civilian suffering and damaging essential infrastructure.