RUSSIAN MISSILE STRIKES KILL 17 IN KYIV AS UKRAINE CALLS FOR MORE AIR DEFENCES
At least 17 people were killed after Russia launched a large scale overnight missile and drone attack on Kyiv and the surrounding region, with Ukrainian officials describing it as one of the most devastating assaults on the capital in recent months.
Ukrainian authorities said 28 missiles and more than 100 drones were launched during the overnight assault, striking residential neighbourhoods, transport infrastructure and commercial buildings. Emergency crews worked throughout the day to extinguish fires, rescue people trapped beneath collapsed structures and search damaged buildings for survivors as dozens of others were treated for injuries.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine was unable to intercept any of the ballistic missiles used in the attack, highlighting what he described as a critical shortage of advanced air defence systems. He urged international partners to accelerate the delivery of additional defensive equipment, warning that delays were costing civilian lives.
The strikes caused widespread destruction across several districts of Kyiv, damaging homes, businesses and public infrastructure. Rescue workers continued clearing debris hours after the bombardment, with officials warning that the death toll could increase as search operations progressed. Local authorities also reported disruptions to transport services and damage to essential utilities in affected areas.
Russian officials said the operation targeted military related infrastructure, while Ukrainian authorities maintained that civilian areas suffered the greatest impact. The latest exchange reflects the continuing disagreement between the two sides over the intended targets of long range strikes as the conflict enters another period of intensified fighting.
International leaders condemned the attack, with several European governments renewing calls for increased military assistance to Ukraine. The latest strike has intensified concerns over the country's ability to defend against ballistic missile attacks as Russia continues to increase the scale and frequency of its aerial assaults.
The deadly bombardment comes amid continued fighting along the front line and a wider escalation in long range attacks by both sides. With diplomatic efforts showing little progress and military operations continuing, concerns remain that the humanitarian impact of the conflict will deepen as the war enters another challenging phase.
Got a news story or tip to share? Contact our editorial team by emailing news@lakelandpost.co.uk or call us directly on 0333 090 2080.