A wave of Russian drones and missiles struck Ukraine’s capital overnight, shaking Kyiv with explosions, collapsing a residential building and leaving at least one person dead as rescue crews searched through the rubble on Tuesday.
The attack unfolded just hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia appeared to be preparing for a renewed major offensive, heightening concerns of further escalation in the conflict.
Air raid sirens sounded across the capital as Ukrainian air defenses engaged incoming targets throughout the night.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said emergency teams were dispatched to multiple strike sites. He confirmed that several people were feared trapped under the debris of a collapsed nine-story residential building, with rescue operations continuing under difficult conditions.
Authorities reported widespread damage to residential infrastructure in several districts, while emergency responders worked to contain fires, clear debris, and assess casualties.
Ukraine’s Air Force said drones and missiles were launched simultaneously, describing the assault as one of the most intense attacks on Kyiv in recent weeks. Officials warned that the casualty figure could rise as search efforts continue.
Neighboring Poland briefly activated fighter jets and air defense systems as a precaution during the strikes near its border, calling it a standard defensive measure to secure its airspace during large-scale Russian attacks in western Ukraine.
The latest bombardment underscores the sustained intensity of the war, with Russian aerial assaults continuing to pose a major threat to Ukrainian cities despite strengthened defenses.
Rescue and recovery operations remain underway in Kyiv as authorities monitor the situation and urge residents to stay alert and follow air raid warnings amid the risk of further strikes.
