Explosions echoed across the Ukrainian capital overnight as Russia unleashed a large-scale drone attack, shattering a three-day truce just hours after its expiration. Air defense systems were actively engaged, intercepting multiple drones over Kyiv while sirens warned residents to seek shelter.
Emergency crews rushed to several locations as officials confirmed damage to residential neighborhoods and critical infrastructure.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the nation following the assault, stating that Ukraine is bracing for further strikes as Russian combat operations continue unabated.
“There was no silence on the front line today. Combat actions have continued. We have documented all of this,” Zelenskyy said. “We also see that Russia has no intention of ending this war, and we are unfortunately preparing for new attacks. But peace must come. That is exactly what we are working for—the defense of Ukraine, Ukraine’s independence, and the safety of our people. These are the most important things.”
Zelenskyy also revealed that Rustem Umerov, Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council, briefed him following political and technological meetings in the United States. While America remains diplomatically engaged, the president acknowledged that the war in West Asia currently commands greater attention from Washington.
“America remains in the diplomatic process,” Zelenskyy said. “It is clear that the war in Iran is currently attracting the most attention from America and the U.S. president. But there is a priority and support there from the American people to end this war in Europe as well.”
Earlier that day, Zelenskyy met with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius in Kyiv. The Ukrainian president commended Germany for its sustained air defense assistance and confirmed that both nations are exploring expanded joint weapons production.
Diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine war have so far yielded no breakthrough. The conflict in Iran has further pushed Ukraine peace talks to the sidelines for the Trump administration, though the president’s three-day ceasefire announcement had briefly raised hopes for renewed U.S.-led negotiations.
As the war grinds on, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas offered a measured assessment, pointing to shifting momentum.
“After the 90 billion loan, Moscow’s record battlefield losses, Ukraine’s deep strikes into Russia, and Moscow’s shrinking military parade, all these things show that the dynamics of the war are changing,” Kallas said. “Ukraine is in a much better position than a year ago, but of course, there is no time for complacency.”
