KYIV – August 20, 2026 – A massive overnight Russian attack using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and drones struck Kyiv and the surrounding region, killing at least 13 people and injuring dozens more, Ukrainian officials said.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported multiple fatalities and injuries across several districts of the capital, including the collapse and fire of a nine-storey residential building. The death toll continued to rise through the morning as rescue operations continued. Authorities declared Friday a day of mourning in Kyiv.
Ukrainian air defences intercepted a large number of the incoming weapons, but strikes still caused significant damage to residential areas, warehouses and infrastructure. Power outages were reported in parts of the city.
The attack came as Ukraine’s parliament confirmed a new defence minister and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy faced growing domestic political pressure. Officials said the scale of the assault underscored the ongoing need for additional air-defence systems.
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