Russian-Ukrainian Assault: Two Dead, Widespread Destruction Across Ukrainian Cities
A relentless overnight offensive by Russian forces has left two dead and at least 15 wounded across Ukraine.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that the barrage included hundreds of drones and multiple missiles, striking civilian targets and setting parts of the country ablaze.
“Russia’s attacks are always against humanity: a kindergarten, residential buildings and other civilian infrastructure burned in Kyiv,” Zelensky wrote on Telegram.
The latest wave saw the launch of 426 drones and 24 missiles, according to Ukraine’s air force. At least 23 drones successfully hit targets — many in populated areas.
The capital, Kyiv, was once again under siege, with loud explosions and the now-familiar drone hum piercing the night sky.
The assault wasn’t isolated to the capital. Western regions like Ivano-Frankivsk, typically more sheltered from direct conflict, faced their most intense bombardment yet. “Shocking and unprecedented,” said the city’s mayor, noting four injuries, including a child.
In Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, 12 missiles struck overnight. Fires erupted at industrial facilities. Damage to infrastructure was severe.
Residential blocks, shops, and even a central metro station in Kyiv were hit. Underground stations became impromptu shelters as families took cover from falling debris.
Meanwhile, chaos spilled across borders. Russian state media reported retaliatory Ukrainian drone attacks targeting Moscow’s airports.
Travellers were left stranded, queues snaked through terminals, and thousands slept on floors as flights were cancelled or delayed.
Russia’s defence ministry claimed to have downed 117 Ukrainian drones, with 30 intercepted over the Moscow region alone.
With the war now entering its fourth year, peace talks remain elusive. President Zelensky, speaking earlier, voiced Kyiv’s readiness to speed up negotiations and proposed fresh talks next week.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov responded via Russian state television, insisting that President Vladimir Putin was open to peace. However, Moscow’s “strategic goals” remained unchanged.
The stalemate is growing more complex. Former President Donald Trump, increasingly frustrated with Putin, recently pledged new military aid to Ukraine, including the powerful Patriot missile systems.
In parallel, the EU imposed additional sanctions on Russia, targeting key sectors in energy and oil.
“Only real pressure on Russia can stop this aggression,” Zelensky added on Monday.
Visiting Kyiv this week, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot echoed that sentiment: “This is why the massive package of sanctions we adopted at the European level last Thursday is welcome. It increases pressure on Vladimir Putin, increases the cost of this unbelievable war,” he said.
Peace remains distant. Putin’s demands include Ukraine’s neutrality, a NATO freeze, restrictions on its armed forces, and international recognition of Russian-held territories. Kyiv continues to reject those terms flatly.
Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s position — that sovereignty and the right to choose alliances are not negotiable.
As Ukraine continues to reel from another night of devastation, the people press on. Rubble is cleared. Broken glass swept. The will to resist, however, remains unshaken.
