Drones at Kyiv kill 14 and injure dozens as Russia intensifies war strategy.
KYIV, Ukraine (Epicstorian News) — In one of the most lethal assaults since the war began, Russia launched scores of missiles and drones at Kyiv on Tuesday, killing at least 14 people and injuring dozens more.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the overnight attack as “one of the most horrific” the capital has faced since the full-scale invasion started in February 2022.
The drones at Kyiv were heard buzzing over residential neighborhoods before several loud explosions rocked different parts of the city, according to AFP journalists. Ukraine’s air defense systems responded immediately, attempting to intercept the aerial barrage as civilians scrambled for shelter.
“An entire section of an apartment block was destroyed,” Zelensky said in a public address. “Rescuers are now digging through the debris to locate survivors.”
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Civilians Take Shelter as Drone and Missile Barrage Hits Kyiv
Residents in central Kyiv rushed to underground metro stations, where they huddled through the night. Many brought pets, blankets, and mobile devices to monitor the unfolding threat. According to locals, the now-routine use of drones at Kyiv has turned metro platforms into makeshift bunkers.
AFP reporters observed people sleeping on mats, exchanging news on incoming attacks, and comforting children and animals.
Kyiv Air Defenses Strain Under Constant Drone Attacks
Military officials said Ukraine’s air defense systems managed to shoot down a significant number of the drones and missiles but were unable to prevent widespread casualties. The Russian drone attack comes amid a noticeable stalling of peace negotiations and follows weeks of smaller-scale aerial assaults.
“The intensity and coordination of this latest Ukraine drone bombardment suggest Moscow is testing Kyiv’s defense capacity under pressure,” said Andriy Yermak, Chief of Staff to President Zelensky.
View the latest drone defense analysis from the Institute for the Study of War
Russia Escalates as Peace Talks Lose Momentum
The timing of the drone and missile barrage raises concerns over Russia’s strategic intent. Talks between Russian and Ukrainian representatives have stalled in recent weeks, with no significant diplomatic progress.
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Experts warn that these intensified drone attacks on Kyiv could signal a pivot away from negotiation toward military escalation.
Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense released a statement noting that more than 50 drones and 30 missiles were launched in the latest wave, targeting critical infrastructure and residential areas.
Global Condemnation and Support for Ukraine Grows
NATO officials and European leaders have condemned the attack and renewed pledges to supply Ukraine with additional air defense systems. The United Nations Human Rights Office also issued a statement urging Russia to halt indiscriminate assaults on civilian areas.
The humanitarian impact of the Kyiv missile strikes is still unfolding. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and emergency services are continuing to search through rubble for survivors.
