KYIV, May 16: Russia intensified its military offensive against Ukraine with a large-scale missile and drone strike on Kyiv that killed at least 24 people, including children, and injured dozens more, according to Ukrainian officials. The attack marked one of the deadliest assaults on the Ukrainian capital since the war began and triggered renewed fears of further escalation in Eastern Europe.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, accusing Moscow of deliberately targeting civilians and critical infrastructure. He said Ukraine was “fully justified” in planning retaliatory strikes against Russian military and energy installations following the latest bombardment.
Emergency crews continued rescue operations through the night as several residential buildings collapsed under the impact of missile strikes. Videos circulating on social media showed massive fires engulfing apartment complexes while rescue teams searched through rubble for survivors.
The attack came shortly after a temporary ceasefire between the two countries collapsed. Russian forces reportedly launched more than 200 drones and missiles at multiple Ukrainian regions, including Kharkiv, Odesa and Dnipro.
Ukraine responded with drone attacks on Russian oil refineries and gas facilities, including targets in the Ryazan region. Russian authorities confirmed fires at energy infrastructure sites but did not disclose the extent of damage.
The renewed violence has complicated ongoing diplomatic efforts led by European nations and the United States to revive peace negotiations. Western leaders condemned the strikes, while NATO members discussed additional military support for Kyiv.
Meanwhile, concerns have grown across Europe over regional security after reports of unidentified drones entering airspace near Finland and Latvia. European Union defence ministers meeting in Brussels emphasized the need for stronger defence coordination amid fears of prolonged instability.
Humanitarian agencies warned that the conflict continues to worsen civilian suffering, with thousands displaced in recent weeks alone. International organisations also expressed concern over attacks on power grids and medical facilities ahead of the summer season.
Analysts say the latest escalation signals a dangerous new phase in the Russia Ukraine war, with both sides increasingly targeting energy assets and urban infrastructure.