Russia launched a massive missile and drone assault on Ukraine's capital Kyiv early Monday, killing at least 10 people and injuring dozens, just a day before NATO leaders gather for a crucial summit in Ankara, Turkey. The attack has once again intensified global concerns over the ongoing war and is expected to dominate discussions at the alliance's annual meeting.
According to Ukrainian officials, Russia fired dozens of ballistic and cruise missiles along with hundreds of drones targeting Kyiv and several other regions. Explosions were heard across the Ukrainian capital as air raid sirens sounded through the night, forcing residents to seek shelter in metro stations and underground bunkers. Several residential buildings were severely damaged, and rescue teams continued searching for people trapped under the rubble.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said that fires broke out in multiple districts, including the historic Podil area, where apartment buildings suffered direct hits. Emergency workers evacuated residents, including children, from damaged high-rise buildings. Officials warned that the death toll could rise as rescue operations continue.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned hours before the attack that Russia was preparing another large-scale strike. Following the assault, he renewed calls for additional Western military assistance, particularly more Patriot air defence systems, arguing that delays in military support encourage Moscow to intensify its attacks.
The latest bombardment comes less than a week after another deadly Russian strike on Kyiv that killed more than 30 people, making it one of the deadliest periods for the Ukrainian capital since the war began in 2022. Ukrainian officials said Russia launched hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles in recent days, underlining a sharp escalation in aerial attacks.
The timing of Monday's attack is particularly significant as NATO leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, prepare to meet in Ankara. The summit is expected to focus heavily on the war in Ukraine, future military aid for Kyiv and Europe's long-term security strategy against Russian aggression. NATO members are also expected to discuss additional financial and military commitments for Ukraine.
As the war enters its fourth year, the latest assault on Kyiv highlights that despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, there is little sign of the conflict easing, with both Russia and Ukraine continuing to escalate long-range attacks.
