Kyiv: A Russian ballistic missile strike hit Kyiv before dawn on Wednesday, killing one civilian and injuring four others, Ukrainian officials reported. The attack triggered fires across the city, shaking residents awake with powerful explosions around 02:30 GMT.
Largest Missile Salvo in Weeks
Local officials described the strike as the largest ballistic missile attack on Kyiv in recent weeks. Ukraine’s air defense engaged multiple incoming missiles, preventing further destruction. Emergency crews worked to control fires and sift through debris in the aftermath.
“We don’t have windows, everything is broken. It’s horrible,” said Anzhela Karnatova, whose office was damaged. Another resident, Nina Kyslenko, arrived at her dry cleaning shop to find shattered glass everywhere. “There were explosions all morning… Everything is ruined,” she said.
Ukraine’s Air Defense Response
Ukraine’s air force reported shooting down six out of seven ballistic missiles. Additionally, 123 drones were launched overnight. The military intercepted 71 drones and used electronic countermeasures against 40 more. Among the injured was a nine-year-old child, according to local authorities.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, calling for continued Western support. “This Russian terror against Ukraine will not stop on its own,” he wrote on Telegram. “Putin is not preparing for peace—he continues to kill Ukrainians and destroy cities.”
Widespread Damage and Ongoing Conflict
Photos from emergency services showed firefighters battling flames in a non-residential building. The attack also damaged critical infrastructure in the Chernihiv region, injuring two more people.
The assault comes nearly three years into Russia’s invasion and amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow. However, with continued strikes, Ukraine insists that real peace requires strong international support.
As winter temperatures drop to -10°C (14°F), Kyiv’s residents continue to endure the war’s relentless impact. The latest attack highlights the urgent need for increased air defense and global efforts to prevent further civilian casualties.
