Russia Launches Missile Attack on Kyiv, Intercepted by Ukrainian Air Defenses

In a significant escalation of hostilities, Russia conducted a missile strike on Kyiv before dawn Thursday, marking the first attack on the Ukrainian capital in 44 days. 

Despite firing 31 ballistic and cruise missiles, Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted all incoming projectiles. However, falling wreckage caused injuries to 13 individuals, including a child, and inflicted damage on residential areas.

Early Morning Assault Unleashes Chaos and Destruction:

Residents of Kyiv were jolted awake by the sound of explosions around 5 a.m. as missiles descended upon the city from various directions simultaneously, according to Serhii Popko, head of the Kyiv City Administration. 

The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that Russia launched two ballistic missiles and 29 cruise missiles targeting the capital, underscoring the severity of the assault.

Human Toll and Structural Damage Highlighted:

Amid the chaos, an 11-year-old girl and a 38-year-old man were hospitalized, with eight others sustaining minor injuries, as reported by Mayor Vitali Klitschko. 

Additionally, approximately 80 individuals were evacuated from their homes by Ukraine’s Emergency Service. 

The impact of intercepted missiles sparked fires in residential areas, damaged parked vehicles, and created craters in streets and public spaces, underscoring the destructive force of the attack.

Escalation of Tensions Following Ukraine’s Aerial Operations:

The missile strike follows recent Ukrainian aerial attacks on Russia’s Belgorod region near the border with Ukraine, prompting threats of retaliation from Russian President Vladimir Putin. 

In response, Putin warned of reciprocal actions targeting civilian infrastructure and other strategic assets, emphasizing Russia’s readiness to defend its interests with decisive measures.