Russian Missile and Drone Attack Kills Three, Injures 24 in Kyiv
A large-scale Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv has killed at least three people, including a 14-year-old girl, and injured 24 others. Ukrainian authorities reported that a five-story residential building was directly hit in the Darnytskyi district, causing significant destruction. The attack, which affected over 20 locations across the capital, is the first major assault on Kyiv since US President Trump and Russian President Putin met in Alaska to discuss ending the three-year war.
Unpacked:
Updated official reports indicate at least 14-15 people were killed, including three to four children, and over 38 were injured, with about 30 hospitalized. The casualty numbers increased as rescue operations continued and more victims were recovered from the rubble.
Russian forces launched hypersonic missiles, including Kinzhal missiles fired from MiG-31 aircraft, as well as multiple waves of drones and other ballistic missiles. Ukrainian air defenses reportedly intercepted some of these, including drones and cruise missiles.
Ukrainian President Zelensky stated the attack was “a clear response” to international calls for a ceasefire and diplomatic negotiations, implying it was intended to undermine peace efforts following the high-level meeting. Russia’s actions were described as choosing violence over negotiation.
Ukraine has called for strong international reactions, particularly from China and Hungary, which have previously advocated for a ceasefire. President Zelensky criticized world leaders for remaining silent or not taking a firm stance after the attack, urging a principled response.