Russian forces conducted large-scale strikes targeting Ukrainian military-industrial facilities and airbases early Thursday, deploying hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and combat drones, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. The ministry claimed all objectives were successfully hit, framing the operation as a precision effort against military targets.
Civilian Impact and Ukrainian Response
Ukrainian authorities reported at least 10 civilian deaths and 38 injuries in Kyiv, with residential buildings damaged across seven districts. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks on social media, stating, "Russia chooses ballistics instead of the negotiating table," while urging stronger international sanctions. Ukraine's air force claimed interception of 563 drones and 26 missiles out of hundreds launched.
Diplomatic Fallout
The European Union and United Kingdom summoned Russian envoys after strikes damaged the EU mission and British Council offices in Kyiv. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas emphasized, "No diplomatic mission should ever be a target," as Western leaders coordinated condemnation of the attacks.
Escalating Drone Warfare
Kyiv has intensified drone strikes on Russian oil infrastructure this month, targeting refineries in Afipsky and Kuybyshevskyi overnight. Moscow reported intercepting 102 Ukrainian drones during the same period, highlighting the expanding technological front in the conflict.
