KYIV, May 15 : Russia launched one of its heaviest aerial bombardments of the year against Ukraine on Thursday, targeting Kyiv and several other regions with missiles and drones in attacks that killed civilians and disrupted electricity supplies.
Ukrainian authorities said residential buildings and critical infrastructure were struck during the overnight assault. Emergency workers rushed to damaged neighbourhoods in Kyiv, where rescue operations continued throughout the day.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strikes and called for stronger international pressure on Moscow. He stated that Russia had dramatically increased its drone attacks in recent days, intensifying fears of a broader escalation in the war.
Ukraine’s national grid operator confirmed that several regions experienced temporary power outages after energy facilities were hit. Officials described the attack as part of a continuing strategy to weaken Ukraine’s infrastructure and civilian morale.
The strikes came shortly after hopes for a temporary ceasefire collapsed earlier this week. Ukrainian officials accused Moscow of deliberately targeting populated areas despite international criticism and repeated calls for restraint.
Several European governments condemned the attacks and reaffirmed support for Kyiv. Leaders from France, Germany and other NATO members urged Russia to halt attacks on civilian targets and return to diplomatic negotiations.
Military analysts said the latest assault reflected Russia’s attempt to maintain pressure on Ukraine while global attention remained focused on developments in Asia and the Middle East. The continued attacks have also raised concerns about energy security and humanitarian conditions ahead of another difficult winter.
Despite the devastation, Ukrainian officials said air defence systems intercepted many incoming drones and missiles, preventing even greater destruction.