Ukraine says Russia launches "massive and virtually nonstop" strikes on Kyiv, killing at least 12

Key Points:

• Russian forces launched a "massive and virtually nonstop" aerial attack on Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities over two nights, deploying more than 1,500 drones and over 50 missiles, resulting in significant destruction including the demolition of entire residential buildings.
• At least 12 people were killed in Kyiv, including a 15-year-old girl, with 57 injured, as reported by Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko; key targets included residential buildings, a school, and a veterinary clinic.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks as deliberate terrorist tactics aimed at overwhelming Ukraine’s air defenses, noting that while 94% of drones were intercepted, only 73% of missiles were shot down, highlighting the need for improved defense capabilities.
• Zelenskyy suggested the timing of the attacks was intended to coincide with U.S. President Trump's visit to China to disrupt the geopolitical atmosphere, accusing Russia of using the offensive to draw attention away from its actions at the expense of Ukrainian lives and infrastructure.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated the war might be nearing its end after more than four years, a sentiment echoed optimistically by Trump, but Zelenskyy emphasized that Russia must take concrete steps toward a lasting ceasefire, following discussions with European leaders on ending the conflict.