Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone assault on Kyiv early Monday, killing at least 18 people in the deadliest such attack in weeks. The barrage targeted multiple districts, overwhelming Ukraine's already-strained air defense network.
The strikes come just ahead of a crucial NATO summit where allies are expected to discuss additional military aid for Kyiv. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly warned that a shortage of Patriot missile batteries has left the capital dangerously exposed to ballistic missiles.
AP News reported at least 18 fatalities, while NPR and Reuters each cited a death toll of 12 from the attack. The discrepancy may reflect different reporting windows or updates as rescue operations continue in the rubble of residential buildings.
European leaders condemned the strikes, with some calling for an emergency acceleration of air defense deliveries. The assault is likely to intensify pressure on NATO members to commit more Patriots and other advanced interceptors to Ukraine.
Moscow has not commented on the attack but has previously defended such strikes as retaliation for Ukrainian operations on Russian territory. The widening protection gap could reshape battlefield dynamics in the months ahead.