Russia launches massive airstrike on Kyiv; 1 dead, 20 injured
What's the story
Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, was hit by a "massive" Russian airstrike early Friday, Kyiv's mayor, Vitaly Klitschko, confirmed. The attack left at least one person dead and over 20 injured. Buildings were damaged in nearly every district of the city. Klitschko confirmed that air defense units were activated to counter the assault, but some heating networks were damaged in the process.
Damage assessment
Residential buildings targeted in attack
Tymur Tkachenko, head of the city's military administration, said residential buildings were targeted. "There are a lot of damaged high-rise buildings throughout Kyiv, almost in every district," he said. The governor of the Kyiv region also confirmed drone and missile attacks that injured one person and caused fires. A 55-year-old man from Bila Tserkva was hospitalized with thermal burns.
Infrastructure targets
Missiles and drones aimed at critical infrastructure
Russia has been ramping up its attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure, particularly energy facilities and rail systems. Mykola Kalashnyk, head of Kyiv's regional military administration, said missiles and drones were aimed at critical infrastructure in the capital. The attack comes as Western allies of Ukraine step up pressure on Russia with new sanctions targeting Russian drone and energy production.
International response
Canada imposes new sanctions against Russia
In response to the escalating violence, Canada announced new sanctions against Russia's drone and energy production. The G7 foreign ministers called for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, reaffirming support for its territorial integrity. However, despite these efforts, both sides remain entrenched in their positions with Moscow rejecting ceasefire calls.