Kyiv endured its most intense aerial bombardment since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict early Thursday, as Russian forces deployed 550 drones and 11 missiles across Ukraine in a single night. The attack marks a significant escalation in warfare tactics, with Ukrainian officials calling it the largest drone offensive ever recorded.
At least one civilian was killed and 26 injured in the capital, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Emergency services worked through the night to extinguish fires and clear debris from residential areas, with 14 victims hospitalized in critical condition.
The assault occurred hours after U.S. President Donald Trump disclosed his first public remarks about pausing certain weapons shipments to Ukraine during a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While Asian markets initially showed limited reaction, analysts warn prolonged conflict could impact global energy prices and supply chains critical to Asia's export-driven economies.
Security experts note the unprecedented scale of drone deployment could influence defense strategies worldwide, including in Asia where several nations face cross-border security challenges. The attack's timing raises questions about shifting geopolitical alliances as world leaders prepare for next month's G20 summit in India.
