Russia launches overnight missile and drone strikes on Kyiv

Russia reportedly launched an overnight missile and drone strike on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, early Thursday, triggering multiple explosions, fires, and damage to residential buildings, according to The New York Times.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned hours earlier that intelligence indicated Russia was preparing another "massive strike" on the capital. He urged residents to heed air-raid alarms and be "especially careful." Air-raid sirens sounded across Kyiv late Wednesday night, followed by waves of "attack" drones and ballistic missiles. Residents reported hearing sustained air-defense fire before a series of powerful explosions shook the city.

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Putin wants to keep fighting. That is why he must face conditions that make it impossible for him to keep this war going.

Fires broke out in several locations, including a large blaze in the city center. Many residents sought refuge in subway stations, bringing sleeping bags and pets after authorities warned that a large-scale strike was imminent. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko urged people to remain in shelters as ballistic missiles entered Ukrainian airspace. According to The New York Times, another series of powerful explosions struck shortly before 2 a.m.

Klitschko later said emergency crews were responding to the collapse of a nine-story apartment building where people were believed to be trapped. Firefighters were also battling fires in at least two districts. The full extent of casualties was not immediately known, but Klitschko said five medical workers had been wounded. The strike came as Ukraine has intensified long-range drone strikes on Moscow and targeted Russian fuel supplies.

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In our discussions with Washington, we have repeatedly emphasised that supplying military equipment to the Kyiv regime could have unforeseen consequences for stability both regionally and globally.