Russian Strikes Pound Kyiv as Ukraine Fires Over 600 Drones Into Russia

Russian strikes pound Kyiv as Ukraine fires over 600 drones into Russia, with both sides reporting extensive damage and casualties. Ukrainian officials said that Monday’s attacks on Kyiv and the surrounding region killed at least 22 people and left 85 injured. Ukraine’s Air Force stated Russia launched 351 drones and 68 missiles, including 29 ballistic missiles, mainly targeting Kyiv, and that all ballistic missiles penetrated air defenses and hit targets. Russia’s Defense Ministry said it carried out a “massive” retaliatory strike in response to alleged “terrorist attacks,” claiming targets included military-industrial facilities and fuel and energy sites, though photos referenced in the article show heavy damage to residential buildings. Russia also said it shot down 613 Ukrainian drones across multiple regions. Additional reports cited at least one woman killed by the drone barrage in Crimea and injuries after a drone hit a bus in Russia’s Belgorod region. The cycle of attacks coincides with NATO leaders convening in Ankara, Turkey, for a summit where President Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to press for more military aid, especially air defenses.