Kyiv endured a relentless 12-hour drone assault overnight, as Russian forces launched a massive wave of unmanned aerial vehicles targeting the Ukrainian capital and surrounding regions. Air defenses were engaged for much of the night, with authorities reporting significant interceptions, though debris and direct hits caused damage in several districts.
The prolonged attack, which commenced late yesterday evening and continued into the early hours of today, utilized dozens of Iran-made Shahed-136/131 drones, according to Ukrainian Air Force officials. Residents across Kyiv were awakened by air raid sirens, followed by the distinctive buzzing sound of the drones and the explosions of air defense systems.
Kyiv Under Siege
Emergency services were dispatched to multiple locations across the capital, responding to fires and structural damage caused by falling drone fragments and at least one direct impact. Reports indicated damage to residential buildings, infrastructure facilities, and parked vehicles. Preliminary information suggested some civilian casualties, though official figures were still being verified at the time of reporting.
“This was one of the most intense and prolonged drone attacks on our capital since the full-scale invasion began,” stated Vitali Klitschko, the Mayor of Kyiv. “Our air defense forces worked heroically, preventing much greater devastation. However, the sheer number of drones meant some debris inevitably caused harm. We urge all citizens to remain vigilant and heed air raid warnings.”
The assault placed considerable strain on Kyiv’s air defense network, which successfully shot down a majority of the incoming threats. However, the extended duration and scale of the attack underscored Russia’s continued strategy of attempting to overwhelm Ukrainian defenses and terrorize civilian populations.
Ukrainian Resilience and Calls for Aid
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the assault, reiterating calls for enhanced international support, particularly in the form of advanced air defense systems capable of countering such persistent drone attacks.
“Every time Russia launches these cowardly attacks on our cities, it highlights the urgent need for more powerful air defense capabilities,” President Zelenskyy said in an address. “We are grateful for the support we receive, but the skies over Ukraine must be fully protected. Our people’s lives depend on it, and the security of Europe depends on it.”
The drone bombardment is the latest in a series of similar attacks on Ukrainian urban centers, with Russian forces frequently employing Shahed drones alongside cruise and ballistic missiles. Ukrainian officials view these strikes as an attempt to deplete their air defense missile stocks, disrupt critical infrastructure, and sow panic among the civilian populace.
As daylight broke over Kyiv, emergency crews continued to assess the full extent of the damage, while residents began the difficult task of clearing debris and beginning repairs. The city remained on high alert, bracing for potential further attacks.
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