Ukraine declared a state of emergency after Russia’s drone strike on Kyiv killed 30 people and wounded 91, the deadliest attack on the capital since the conflict began in February 2022. The strike, which Ukraine described as a coordinated assault by multiple drones, damaged more than 130 buildings and caused widespread disruption to the city’s infrastructure.

At Least 30 Killed, 91 Wounded in Deadliest Strike on Kyiv

President Volodymyr Zelensky has vowed to respond with a powerful counterattack, saying those responsible for the attack would "face the full fury of Ukrainian resistance." The strike, which was carried out early on Thursday morning, targeted several high-rise residential buildings and a major industrial complex, officials said.

Kyiv aerial view post-strike

International Condemnation of Drone Strike

The attack has been widely condemned by the international community, with the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom among those issuing statements of support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia’s actions. The EU has called for a United Nations emergency meeting to discuss the crisis, while US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has summoned the Russian ambassador to the State Department to demand an explanation.

Zelensky to Meet with EU Leaders

Ukraine’s president is set to meet with EU leaders in Brussels on Friday to discuss further support for Ukraine’s military and economic aid. The meeting comes as Ukraine’s foreign minister, Dmytro Kuleba, accused Russia of committing a war crime in the attack, which he described as a "barbaric and cowardly" act.

Russia Denies Involvement in Kyiv Strike

Russia has denied any involvement in the attack, but Ukrainian officials say they have evidence that points to Russian responsibility. The Ukrainian military has launched a counterattack against Russian forces in the eastern regions of Donetsk and Luhansk, where fighting has been escalating in recent days.

Escalating Conflict

The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has escalated significantly in recent weeks, with both sides accusing each other of violating a ceasefire agreement. The attack on Kyiv has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation, with some analysts warning of a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine.