The attack reached various points in the Ukrainian capital and damaged residential buildings, a maternity hospital, and energy and logistics infrastructure. Authorities also reported at least six injuries
Russia launched a new attack with ballistic missiles and drones against Kiev early Thursday morning, in one of the latest air offensives on the Ukrainian capital. Local authorities initially reported at least two dead and six injured, while emergency teams worked at various points in the city.
Kiev's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, reported that the attacks caused more than 20 explosions and ordered the population to remain in shelters. Among the affected locations is a maternity hospital, whose facade was damaged. One of the deceased was in the parking lot next to the medical center.
The mayor of Kiev Vitali Klitschko
Emergency services reported damage in at least three districts of the capital. A residence was partially destroyed and fires were recorded in various locations due to falling missile debris.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the attack was part of a larger-scale offensive. Between Wednesday afternoon and Thursday morning, Russia launched 282 long-range drones against various regions of Ukraine, in addition to ballistic and anti-ship missiles. Kiev and Odesa were among the main areas attacked.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the main targets were Kiev and civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings, a maternity hospital, energy facilities, and logistics centers. He also called for greater international pressure against Moscow and more air defense systems to intercept ballistic missiles.
The attack occurred while Zelensky is in New York to participate in the United Nations General Assembly. During his visit, the Ukrainian president is holding talks with U.S. officials and other international leaders to request new sanctions against Russia and increased military assistance.
A building in Kiev after the Russian attack
The offensive came after another day of intense attacks on Kiev, during which Russian bombings caused new casualties and damage. Russia carried out more attacks on the Kiev region during the first 18 days of September than in any full month since the beginning of the large-scale invasion.
The new wave of attacks comes at a time of increasing diplomatic tension. While Kiev calls for greater measures against Moscow, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated before the UN Security Council that Russia does not plan to pause the war. Zelensky, for his part, warned that Ukraine will continue to target Russian energy infrastructure throughout the winter.
