In a shocking escalation of violence, Russia has unleashed a relentless barrage on Kyiv, launching over 500 drones and 11 ballistic missiles in the most intense overnight assault since the war began. The strikes, which injured at least 23 people, targeted key infrastructure, setting buildings and vehicles ablaze across the capital. Air raid alerts blared for more than eight hours, forcing many residents to seek refuge in the city’s metro stations as the sound of explosions echoed through the night.

The Ukrainian military reports significant damage to railway systems and civilian structures, including schools and medical centers, particularly in the northern and western districts of Kyiv. As dawn broke, a noxious smell lingered in the air, prompting officials to warn citizens to keep windows closed due to potential chemical exposure.

Compounding the crisis, Ukraine’s air defense systems have struggled to intercept the incoming missiles, raising serious concerns about the nation’s defense capabilities amid this unprecedented assault. While some drones were successfully intercepted, the failure to neutralize any of the ballistic missiles underscores a troubling vulnerability. The situation is further complicated by reports that the U.S. may delay shipments of Patriot missiles, critical for intercepting such threats.

In the wake of this devastating attack, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed disappointment following a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, revealing no progress toward peace. As President Trump prepares to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later today, the urgency for effective defense measures and international support has never been more critical. Kyiv stands on the brink, grappling with the realities of a war that shows no signs of abating.