Russia launched a fresh wave of missile and drone attacks on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, just one day before the NATO summit, killing at least 24 people and injuring more than 100 others. The Russian attack on Kyiv marked the second major strike on the Ukrainian capital within a week, further escalating tensions as world leaders prepare to discuss regional security.
According to Ukrainian officials, the attacks targeted residential areas across Kyiv. In the Podilskyi district, a ballistic missile struck a multi-story apartment building, leaving a large crater and splitting several floors of the structure. Air raid alerts were issued across the city, and residents reported hearing more than ten explosions during the assault.
Authorities said 16 people were killed in Kyiv, while another eight lost their lives in the nearby town of Vyshneve. More than 100 people were injured, and emergency crews continued search and rescue operations to find survivors trapped under the rubble.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the strikes as a “brutal attack” and said Russia’s military strategy had not changed. He urged NATO members to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, particularly against ballistic missiles, saying the country still lacks sufficient systems to counter such threats effectively.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte also called on allies and partner nations to ensure Ukraine receives the support it needs. The Russian attack on Kyiv came just before the NATO summit, where leaders are expected to discuss Ukraine’s security, military assistance, and additional air defense measures.