Russia launched one of its most intense attacks on Kyiv in months early Saturday, unleashing an estimated 500 drones and 40 missiles, including Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, according to Ukrainian officials. The barrage came just ahead of a planned meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and U.S. President Donald Trump.
Casualties and Damage
Ukrainian authorities said at least 22 people were injured in Kyiv, including two children, with a dozen hospitalized. In the surrounding Kyiv region, one woman was killed as apartment buildings were struck and fires broke out, prompting search-and-rescue operations amid rubble.
Thousands of residents were left without basic services. Officials reported that more than 2,600 apartment buildings and numerous schools lost heating, while about 320,000 homes were without electricity.
Energy Infrastructure Targeted
The attacks appeared to focus heavily on energy facilities. Ukrainian officials confirmed strikes on Kyiv’s TPP-5 power plant and the Bila Tserkva plant, underscoring concerns that Russia is again targeting Ukraine’s energy grid during the winter months.
Zelenskyy: Attacks Undermine Peace Efforts
Zelenskyy said the assault was Russia’s response to ongoing peace efforts and renewed his call for Western allies to provide additional air defense systems. Speaking while en route to the United States for talks with Trump, he said Ukraine has agreed to multiple compromises but stressed that any move toward peace depends on firm security guarantees from the U.S. and Europe.
He emphasized that unity among allies is critical, saying Ukraine’s ability to stop Russian aggression depends on sustained international support.
Broader Escalation Continues
The latest strikes follow a deadly exchange of long-range drone attacks earlier in the week that killed at least seven people and injured dozens across Ukraine, according to officials. Zelenskyy has warned that Russia continues to hit cities and energy infrastructure, even during the Christmas period, causing widespread power outages and civilian harm.
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