Explosions were heard in central Kyiv on Monday morning during rush hour as Ukraine’s military warned of a significant Russian missile and drone assault, following waves of drone attacks earlier in the day.
The Ukrainian air force reported that Russia had deployed 11 TU-95 strategic bombers and confirmed the launch of several missiles. Outside the capital, Reuters reporters heard air defenses engaging targets.
Local authorities reported explosions in the northwestern city of Lutsk, where an apartment block was damaged, and possible casualties were being verified.
The Operational Command of the Polish armed forces announced on X that Polish and allied aircraft were activated following Russia’s attack, which also targeted regions in western Ukraine near the Polish border.
Ukrainians had been anticipating a major Russian missile strike, especially after the U.S. embassy warned last week of an elevated risk around Ukrainian Independence Day, celebrated on Saturday.
In response, Ukraine has intensified its long-range drone attacks on Russia. Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, vowed retaliation on Telegram, saying, “The desire to destroy our energy will cost the Russians dearly: their infrastructure.”
Ukraine’s military reported that Russia launched two waves of drone attacks earlier on Monday, with up to 10 drones destroyed near Kyiv around 0230 GMT. No damage or casualties were initially reported.
There was no immediate response from Russia. Both nations deny targeting civilians, claiming their attacks focus on infrastructure critical to the other’s war effort.
