rki.news | Sources Reuters

KYIV: A major Russian airstrike killed 16 people and injured more than 40 in Kyiv and the surrounding region on Thursday, according to Ukrainian officials.

Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched dozens of cruise, ballistic and hypersonic missiles along with 168 drones in a large overnight attack.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported casualties in the capital, while authorities across the region continued emergency and rescue operations following the strikes.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the latest attack highlighted the urgent need for stronger air defenses and additional interceptor missiles from Ukraine’s allies.

Zelenskiy said a shortage of air-defense systems was costing lives as Russia continued its large-scale attacks.

The strikes came amid ongoing international efforts to end the war, with Kyiv continuing to seek greater military support from its Western partners.

The latest attack represents one of the most serious recent aerial assaults on the Ukrainian capital and surrounding areas, adding to concerns over civilian safety and the continuing intensity of the conflict.

Ukrainian authorities urged residents to remain alert as emergency services assessed damage and continued their response.