A drone struck the headquarters of the Security Service of Ukraine, in the heart of the capital. The attack left injuries and represents a new escalation in the intensity of the war
Russia launched a drone attack on Friday against the heart of Ukraine's security services. One of the devices hit the headquarters of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), located on Volodymyrska Street, in the heart of Kyiv and in front of the historic Saint Sophia Cathedral. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the impact and stated that the target was the office of the head of the agency, Oleksandr Poklad.
The attack caused a significant column of smoke over the capital and left at least five people injured, according to initial reports released by Ukrainian authorities. Subsequent information raised the number of injured as emergency teams worked in the area to assess the damage and assist the victims.
Ukrainian firefighters extinguishing the fire caused by a bombing
The location of the target makes the attack particularly significant. The SBU headquarters is one of the main centers of intelligence and security for the Ukrainian state and has played a central role during the war against Russia. Directly hitting its facilities demonstrates that Moscow retains the capability to reach sensitive targets even within a heavily protected capital.
The attack also occurred at a time of increasing military tension. In recent days, Russia has intensified its airstrikes against Ukraine, while Ukrainian forces continue to carry out operations against Russian targets, including facilities linked to the energy sector. The war thus enters a new phase marked by long-range attacks and increasing pressure on air defenses.
Zelensky condemned the attack and anticipated a Ukrainian response. The Kyiv government considers the offensive to be a new escalation and calls for greater international pressure on Moscow. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also called for international condemnations and an increase in measures against Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky
The episode takes on additional significance as it coincides with diplomatic efforts led by the United States to try to bring the parties closer together again. In the coming days, U.S. envoys are scheduled to make contact with both Moscow and Kyiv, while Zelensky raised the possibility of a pause in airstrikes during the talks.
The blow against the SBU headquarters thus sends a strong signal: despite attempts to open a diplomatic avenue, the military machinery remains active and both sides continue to seek to demonstrate that they can reach strategic targets in enemy territory.
