Russia launched a major overnight missile and drone attack on Ukraine’s capital Kyiv, killing at least 12 people and injuring 33, according to Ukrainian authorities and emergency services.
The attack struck more than a dozen locations across Kyiv, including residential areas, a medical facility and an educational institution. One of the worst-hit sites was a nine storey residential building in the Solomianskyi district, where the upper floors were destroyed and several people were trapped under rubble. Seven people were reportedly killed at that location.
Emergency crews worked through the night to rescue residents, extinguish fires and search damaged buildings. Large fires were reported at several locations across the capital.
Power Disruptions
- The strikes also damaged infrastructure and temporarily disrupted electricity supplies. Around 90,000 homes initially lost power, although many were later reconnected.
- A children’s hospital and a school were among the facilities damaged, raising further concerns over the impact on civilians.
Russia’s Explanation
- Russia’s Defence Ministry said its forces were targeting military and logistical facilities. Ukrainian authorities, however, reported extensive damage in civilian areas.
- Russia said its strikes targeted facilities linked to drone component production, a military depot and a logistics hub.
Wider Regional Concern
- The attack comes amid continuing exchanges of long range missiles and drones between Russia and Ukraine.
- Reports also indicated that a Russian drone entered the airspace of Romania and Moldova during the broader assault, adding to concerns that the conflict could create wider security risks in Europe.
Peace Efforts Remain Stalled
The latest attack comes as diplomatic efforts continue to find a path toward ending the war. However, negotiations have yet to produce a lasting ceasefire.
The escalation highlights the continuing challenges to peace more than four years after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Business Galaxy Takeaway:
The Kyiv attack is significant beyond its humanitarian impact, as continued escalation could affect European security, energy markets, defence spending and global geopolitical stability.
