Russia launches massive attack on Kyiv ahead of NATO summit, 7 killed; war tensions escalate
Russia launched a major missile and drone attack on Kyiv ahead of the NATO summit, killing seven people and injuring dozens as tensions in the Ukraine war continue to escalate.
Kyiv/Moscow (The Uttam Hindu): Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, and nearby areas just ahead of the NATO summit, killing at least seven people and injuring more than two dozen others. Several residential buildings were damaged, while rescue teams continue to search for people feared trapped under the rubble.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia used a combination of missiles and drones during the assault. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said debris from intercepted missiles caused fires in at least two districts of the city, damaging multiple buildings. Local authorities urged residents to remain in safe shelters as emergency crews responded to the attacks.
The latest strike comes only days after another major Russian assault on Kyiv that reportedly killed at least 30 people, further intensifying fear and uncertainty across the Ukrainian capital.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had warned a day earlier that intelligence agencies had detected preparations for a major Russian attack. He accused Moscow of attempting to increase pressure ahead of the United States' Independence Day and the upcoming NATO summit, alleging that Russia aimed to maximize destruction and target civilians. Hours after his warning, the attack on Kyiv took place.
The strikes occurred just before the NATO summit, scheduled to begin Tuesday in Ankara, Türkiye, where US President Donald Trump and leaders of member nations are expected to discuss the Ukraine war, European security, and future strategy toward Russia. The timing of the attack is being viewed by many observers as a strategic message from Moscow.
Meanwhile, Russian forces continue efforts to expand their control in Ukraine's Donetsk region, while Ukraine has intensified missile and drone strikes on Russian oil refineries, ports, and military facilities. The conflict has continued to escalate, with both sides targeting key strategic infrastructure in recent weeks.
On July 4, US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a 90-minute phone conversation. According to Russia's Foreign Ministry, Trump again offered to help facilitate an end to the war. However, the renewed attack on Kyiv shortly afterward suggests that prospects for an immediate ceasefire remain uncertain, with global attention now focused on the upcoming NATO summit.