A massive Russian overnight assault has struck Ukraine’s capital Kyiv, leaving at least four people dead and eight others injured, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko. The latest wave of attacks also targeted multiple regions, including Zaporizhzhia, where 16 civilians – among them three children – were wounded.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister reported that Moscow deployed hundreds of drones and missiles in this latest escalation. Russia has not publicly commented on the strikes, which come as Ukrainian officials warn that Moscow’s campaign extends beyond Ukraine.
President Volodymyr Zelensky, addressing supporters on Saturday, said Russia is testing European air defenses with its recent incursions into NATO territory. He cautioned that Russian President Vladimir Putin “will not stop with Ukraine” and could soon widen the conflict.
The barrage began just hours after Zelensky’s warning. In neighboring Poland, jets were scrambled as missiles and drones struck western Ukraine. Poland described the move as preventative, following several earlier incidents in which Russian drones crossed into its airspace. NATO has since reinforced its eastern flank to deter further incursions.
Denmark and Estonia have also reported aerial violations. Danish authorities revealed that drones were flown over airports in what they called the work of a “professional actor,” though they stopped short of naming Moscow. Estonia accused Russia of violating its airspace with warplanes.
Meanwhile, NATO members continue to debate their response. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has called for NATO nations to shoot down Russian aircraft in their skies. He recently shifted his stance on the war, saying Ukraine could reclaim all of its territory.
Moscow, through Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, denied any intent to attack EU or NATO states but warned of a “decisive response” to what it sees as aggression.
As the war grinds into its third year, the strikes underscore the growing risks of escalation beyond Ukraine’s borders.
