# 26 Killed in Russian Strikes on Kyiv Region Ahead of NATO Summit

*At least 26 people were killed and over 100 wounded as Russian missiles and drones struck Kyiv and surrounding areas on the eve of a crucial NATO summit.*

July 7, 2026 · World

## At a glance

- At least 26 people killed in Russian missile and drone strikes in Kyiv.
- Attacks occurred on the eve of a crucial NATO summit in Turkey.
- President Zelensky calls for increased air defense support from NATO.
- NATO chief Mark Rutte emphasizes continued support for Ukraine.
- Ukraine reports striking an oil refinery in Russia's Omsk region in retaliation.

At least 26 people were killed and over 100 wounded as Russian missiles and drones struck Kyiv and surrounding areas on the eve of a crucial NATO summit. Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia fired missiles and drones into apartment buildings in Kyiv for the second time in a week, with 18 deaths in the capital and another eight in Vyshneve, a town just outside Kyiv.

## President Zelensky's Plea

President Volodymyr Zelensky decried the 'brutal strike', emphasizing the need for increased air defense capabilities. He highlighted the success in shooting down drones and cruise missiles but noted the lack of defense against hard-to-intercept ballistic missiles. Zelensky pleaded for the alliance to boost Ukraine's air defense at the upcoming NATO summit in Turkey.

## NATO's Response

NATO chief Mark Rutte echoed the call for continued support, stating that 'allies and NATO partners must continue to ensure Ukraine gets what it needs.' The strikes come amid heightened tensions and as Ukraine seeks to bolster its defenses against ongoing Russian aggression.

## Impact and Aftermath

The morning strike caused significant damage, punching a crater into a multi-storey apartment block in Kyiv's Podilsky district. Emergency services worked through the night, evacuating around 500 people in Vyshneve and carrying out bodies on white sheets. The attack has left many in Kyiv feeling unsafe, with residents describing the war as reaching a 'new phase.'

## Russian Justification

Russia's defence ministry claimed the 'massive strike' targeted 'military-industrial enterprises', fuel and energy facilities in several Ukrainian regions. However, the civilian casualties and widespread destruction in residential areas suggest a broader impact beyond military objectives.

## Ukrainian Retaliation

While Kyiv reeled from the attack, the Ukrainian army reported striking an oil refinery in Russia's Omsk region, around 2,500 kilometers from Ukraine's border. Zelensky announced the use of 'upgraded Fire Point drones' for the strike, indicating an escalation in Ukraine's long-range capabilities.

## Sources

- BSS

---
Source: https://pulsetoday.com.bd/en/world/russian-strikes-kill-26-kyiv-region-nato-summit