Russia launches massive attack on Kyiv, killing 17 and injuring dozens

Kyiv plunged into darkness and fear early Thursday as Russia launched a massive barrage of hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles, killing at least 17 people and injuring dozens more. The attacks devastated buildings and critical infrastructure, forcing thousands of residents to seek shelter in metro stations.

This was the second deadliest Russian assault on the city this year. Moscow framed the operation as retaliation for Ukrainian strikes on Russian soil, particularly targeting energy facilities in recent months, which have caused a fuel crisis in Russia. Ukrainians experienced a swift shift from celebrating strikes on Russia to facing a new, devastating assault.

"This night, Russia once again carried out a cynical, large-scale attack against Ukraine," stated Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko on Telegram, noting that "Kyiv bore the brunt of the blow." Ukrainian Air Force reported 74 missiles and 496 drones were launched, with most intercepted. However, 25 ballistic missiles and 12 drones hit 33 different locations.

Russia's Defense Ministry claimed the attack used high-precision long-range weapons from air, land, and sea, targeting military, energy, and airport facilities in response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian civilian infrastructure. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian General Staff announced a strike on an oil refinery in Kstovo, Nizhny Novgorod region, Russia, resulting in one death and four injuries from a drone attack.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sibyha appealed to Ukraine's allies for enhanced air defense, describing Kyiv's night as one of terror. Mayor Vitali Klitschko declared Friday a day of mourning amidst widespread damage across the city of approximately 3 million residents. Rescue teams worked through the wreckage of a nine-story building on the left bank of the Dnieper River as fires continued to rage.

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This night, Russia once again carried out a cynical, large-scale attack against Ukraine. The Kyiv bore the brunt of the blow.