Russian Strikes Kill 20 Ahead Of NATO Summit
Russian missile and drone strikes hit Kyiv and surrounding areas ahead of a major NATO summit, killing at least 20 people and injuring dozens, according to Ukrainian authorities.
Russian Strikes Hit Kyiv Ahead Of NATO Summit
Ukraine said Russia launched a large overnight attack involving missiles and drones, with Kyiv among the worst-hit areas. Residential buildings, civilian infrastructure and several neighbourhoods in and around the capital suffered damage.
Emergency teams were deployed to search through rubble, evacuate residents and assist the injured. Officials said the casualty count could change as rescue operations continued in damaged buildings.
Kyiv Region Reports Civilian Casualties
Authorities said several civilians were killed in the Kyiv region, while more deaths were reported in the capital. Apartment blocks and other civilian structures were damaged in the strikes, raising fresh concerns over the impact of Russia’s long-range attacks on populated areas.
Ukraine’s air defence units intercepted several incoming targets, but officials said ballistic and high-speed missiles remain difficult to stop without stronger defence systems.
Ukraine Seeks Stronger Air Defence Support
The attack came just before a NATO summit where Ukraine is expected to press allies for more advanced air defence systems and continued military support. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly urged Western partners to speed up deliveries of interceptors and missile defence equipment.
Russia has maintained that its strikes target military and energy infrastructure, while Ukraine has accused Moscow of deliberately endangering civilians. The latest attack adds pressure on NATO members to address Kyiv’s request for stronger protection against missile and drone assaults.
