Russia initiated a significant assault on Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine early Sunday, utilizing hundreds of drones and missiles, resulting in the death of at least four individuals and injuring numerous others. This attack marked one of the most intense offensives on the capital since the commencement of the full-scale conflict.
In response to the escalating situation, Poland took defensive measures by closing its airspace near two southeastern cities and deploying jets from its air force until the threat subsided. Ukraine’s military reported that Russia launched 595 drones and 48 missiles overnight, with Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepting 568 drones and 43 missiles. The primary target of the assault was identified as Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy lamented the extensive damage caused by the prolonged attack, which lasted over 12 hours, impacting critical facilities such as a cardiology clinic, factories, and residential structures. The aftermath of the assault left a trail of destruction in Kyiv, with residents facing the daunting task of rebuilding amidst the chaos.
Russia’s defense ministry asserted that it executed a “massive” offensive on Ukraine, leveraging long-range air and sea-based weaponry alongside drones to strike military installations, particularly airfields. Despite Moscow’s denial of targeting civilians, the toll on human lives and infrastructure in residential areas has been significant, with casualties mounting and communities devastated by the ongoing conflict.
Zelenskyy reiterated his call for swift international action to curtail Russia’s financial backing for the invasion, urging the United States, Europe, the G7, and the G20 to respond robustly. The plea for support comes amid challenges in convincing key stakeholders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, to impose punitive sanctions on Moscow.
Against the backdrop of relentless attacks, Ukraine’s air defense capabilities have been strained throughout 2025. Efforts to bolster defenses have been made, with the deployment of additional Patriot missile systems from Israel and plans for further reinforcements in the coming months. However, the demand for enhanced protection exceeds the available resources, as nations worldwide seek to fortify their defenses amidst geopolitical uncertainties.
The assault on Sunday extended beyond Kyiv, targeting various regions, including the city of Zaporizhzhia, where authorities reported significant injuries. Emergency services confirmed the loss of at least four lives and the injury of 67 individuals across the country, with heartbreaking reports, including the tragic death of a 12-year-old girl amid the chaos and destruction.
