Massive Drone and Missile Attack on Kyiv

KYIV, Ukraine — In the early hours of Saturday, Kyiv experienced a significant onslaught of Russian drone and missile strikes, resulting in at least 15 injuries, according to local authorities. Explosions and gunfire echoed throughout the city as many residents took refuge in subway stations.

The assault occurred shortly after Russia and Ukraine commenced a major exchange involving hundreds of prisoners, as part of a deal reached in Istanbul the previous week.

This exchange marked a rare cooperative effort amid the ongoing three-year conflict, which has seen various attempts at negotiating a ceasefire largely fail.

Officials reported that Russia launched 14 ballistic missiles and 250 Shahed drones overnight. Ukrainian defenses managed to intercept 6 missiles and neutralized 245 drones—128 were shot down, while 117 were disabled using electronic warfare.

The Kyiv City Military Administration described the attack as one of the largest combined missile and drone offensives against the capital. “It was a tough night for all of us,” they stated. Debris from intercepted missiles and drones impacted at least six districts, with some residential areas—particularly Obolon—sustaining significant damage.

Local residents recounted the chaos, with one eyewitness noting, “The air raid siren went off like usual, followed by drones buzzing around.” Moments later, he described the scene as “explosions shattered glass and debris.” He detailed damage to his apartment while waiting helplessly for firefighters to arrive.

Despite the ongoing violence, a substantial prisoner swap took place, allowing 390 Ukrainians to return home. Russian officials acknowledged receiving the same number from Ukraine. While this was the largest prisoner exchange of the war to date, it has not led to a cessation of hostilities along the extensive front line, where intense fighting continues.