Russia carried out one of its largest attacks on Kyiv in recent months on Sunday, firing hundreds of drones and missiles at the Ukrainian capital and surrounding areas, including what officials said was an Oreshnik hypersonic missile launched near the city.
Ukrainian authorities said the hours-long overnight barrage killed two people in Kyiv and two more in nearby regions, while injuring nearly 100 others. Dozens of residential buildings, schools and infrastructure sites were damaged, with destruction reported across central districts of the capital.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attack must not go unanswered and urged Ukraine’s allies, including the United States and European partners, to take decisive action. “Decisions are needed,” he said, warning that Russia’s escalation should trigger a stronger international response.
Strikes were also reported in other parts of Ukraine, including the southern Kherson region. Authorities there confirmed additional fatalities linked to the wider wave of attacks.
European leaders strongly condemned the bombardment. Britain and Germany described the reported use of the Oreshnik, a nuclear-capable intermediate-range missile, as a serious escalation of the war. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas accused Moscow of engaging in “reckless nuclear brinkmanship” and using intimidation tactics to pressure Ukraine and its allies.
In Kyiv, damage was reported to government buildings, cultural institutions and historic landmarks. The cabinet building sustained minor structural damage, while the Foreign Ministry was also affected. The city’s national art museum and philharmonic hall were among the sites badly hit, alongside other heritage buildings in the city centre.
Officials said even a newly opened museum dedicated to the 1986 Chernobyl disaster was destroyed in the strikes, prompting strong condemnation from Ukrainian leaders who described the attacks as targeting national identity and culture.
Despite widespread destruction, some residents continued efforts to clear debris and reopen damaged businesses, reflecting resilience in the aftermath of the assault.
via Reuters
