Russia launched a massive barrage of missiles and drones against Ukraine overnight, killing at least 10 people in Kyiv and wounding 45 others in one of the deadliest single attacks in months. The assault — which Ukrainian officials say involved more than 1,560 drones fired in a 36-hour period — has shattered any remaining hopes that a U.S.-brokered three-day ceasefire last week might lead to a broader political settlement.
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President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attacks targeted six districts of the capital and another six surrounding areas, damaging at least 20 sites including homes, a school, a veterinary clinic and other civilian infrastructure. Seven bodies were pulled from the rubble of a single residential building destroyed in the Darnytskyi district.
“As of now, we know that a total of 10 people have died in Kyiv as a result of the Russian massive attack,” Zelenskyy said in his evening address. Among those killed were three men, three women, and a young girl, according to police.
The Ukrainian air force said Russia launched 675 attack drones and 56 missiles, predominantly striking Kyiv. Air defence units intercepted 652 drones and 41 missiles. Deputy Prime Minister Oleksii Kuleba said ports in the southern Odesa region and railway infrastructure were also targeted.
The attack represents a significant military escalation following the collapse of the brief ceasefire brokered by President Donald Trump last weekend. That truce — observed as Russian President Vladimir Putin presided over a scaled-down Victory Day parade in Moscow — was marred by allegations of violations from both sides, and long-range drone attacks resumed the moment it expired on Tuesday.
Kremlin officials have poured cold water on the idea that Putin’s vague suggestion the war was “heading to an end” signaled any softening in Moscow’s position. On Wednesday, Russia repeated its demand that Ukraine fully withdraw from the eastern Donbas region before any ceasefire or full-scale peace talks can begin — a condition Kyiv has rejected as tantamount to capitulation.
International reactions have been swift. British officials summoning the Russian ambassador for explanation, while France and Germany issued a joint statement condemning the attack. The United States, which brokered the collapsed ceasefire, has signaled possible increases in weapons deliveries to Ukraine, though no formal announcement has been made.
The escalation comes as Iran conflict has drawn significant Western attention away from Ukraine, with U.S. military resources stretched across multiple global crises. Ukrainian officials have called on Western partners not to allow the simultaneous crises to diminish their support for Kyiv.
“The world must not remain silent about this strike,” Zelenskyy said. “And it is equally important to continue supporting the protection of our skies.”