Early on Sunday, Russia launched a significant attack on Ukraine, targeting Kyiv and other regions with hundreds of drones and missiles. This assault resulted in at least four deaths and left dozens injured, marking one of the most intense strikes on the capital since the war escalated.
According to Ukraine’s military, the attack involved 595 drones and 48 missiles. Ukrainian air defenses managed to intercept 568 drones and 43 missiles, but the damage was still severe, particularly in Kyiv, which was the main focus of the assault. President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that the attack lasted over 12 hours and caused extensive damage to a cardiology clinic, factories, and residential buildings.
In response to the threat, neighboring Poland closed its airspace near two southeastern cities and scrambled its air force to ensure safety until the danger passed. The Russian defense ministry claimed responsibility for what it called a “massive” attack aimed at military infrastructure, including airfields.
Despite Moscow’s assertions that it does not target civilians, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Thousands of civilians have lost their lives, and residential areas have been heavily damaged. President Zelensky reiterated his call for the international community to take stronger action against Russia, particularly to cut off its energy revenues, which fund the ongoing invasion. He expressed disappointment that the United States has not yet imposed significant sanctions on Moscow.
As Kyiv residents awoke to the sounds of explosions and air defenses firing, many rushed to metro stations for safety. Smoke filled the sky from the strikes, which continued for hours. Reports from the suburbs of Kyiv revealed rows of new homes destroyed and cars flattened by debris. Emergency services confirmed that at least 67 people were injured across the country, with a 12-year-old girl among the fatalities, although this has yet to be officially confirmed.
Zelensky noted that the attacks stretched Ukraine’s air defenses, which have been under strain throughout 2025. He mentioned the recent deployment of an additional Patriot missile system from Israel, with more expected soon. However, the availability of air defense systems remains limited, as many nations are also looking to strengthen their own defenses against perceived threats from Russia.
In addition to Kyiv, the southern city of Zaporizhzhia was also hit, with local authorities reporting at least 16 injuries there. As the situation unfolds, Ukraine continues to seek more support from international partners to bolster its defenses and protect its skies.
