A Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv killed at least 14 people and wounded around 60 more on the eve of a crucial NATO summit, Ukrainian authorities said. The strike targeted residential buildings, marking the second such attack in a week. President Volodymyr Zelensky urged NATO to take'strong decisions' on bolstering Ukraine's air defenses. The European Union also called for increased air defense support for Ukraine.
Attack Details and Response
The morning strike created a crater in a multi-storey apartment block in Kyiv, with AFP reporters hearing more than 10 explosions during a ballistic missile alert. Zelensky said Ukraine's army shot down Russian drones and cruise missiles but lacked interceptor missiles to stop ballistic missiles. Russia's defence ministry claimed the attack targeted'military-industrial enterprises' and energy facilities.
International Reactions and NATO Summit
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen said the attack highlighted Ukraine's urgent need for more air defense, a topic to be discussed at the NATO meeting. US President Donald Trump is set to meet Zelensky on the sidelines of the summit to discuss ending the war. Trump will then follow up with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Ongoing Conflict and Diplomatic Efforts
The attack comes amid ongoing conflict, with both sides vowing fresh attacks. US-led attempts to broker an end to the more than four-year war have been unsuccessful. The Kremlin has refused to back down on territorial and political demands that Ukraine and its allies say amount to capitulation.
Why This Matters
The strike underscores the urgent need for enhanced air defenses in Ukraine and highlights the escalating conflict ahead of the NATO summit. The international community's response and the outcomes of the summit will be crucial in determining the next steps in the war and the support Ukraine receives.
