Largest Aerial Assault on Ukraine's Capital Since Start of Russia's Invasion

Waves of drones and missiles targeted Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, overnight in the largest aerial assault since Russia's invasion of Ukraine began over three years ago. The attack came just hours after a phone call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ukrainian authorities reported the barrage killed one person and wounded at least 26 others, including a child. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he had a "very important and productive" phone call with Mr. Trump, discussing how Ukrainian air defences might be strengthened, possible joint weapons production between the U.S. and Ukraine, and broader U.S. efforts to end the war with Russia.

Key Takeaways:

• The assault, which lasted for seven hours, caused severe damage across multiple districts of Kyiv, with 14 people hospitalized and at least 26 wounded.
• Russia launched 550 drones and missiles across Ukraine during the night, the majority of which were Shahed drones, with 11 missiles also launched.
• The Ukrainian air force shot down 270 targets, including two cruise missiles, while another 208 targets were lost from radar and presumed jammed.
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said he congratulated U.S. President Donald Trump on Independence Day and thanked the United States for its continued support.
• The two leaders discussed possible joint weapons production between the U.S. and Ukraine and ways to enhance Ukraine's protection against air attacks.
• Russia's Defence Ministry claimed its forces targeted factories producing drones and other military equipment in Kyiv.
• Ukrainian officials and the Russian Defence Ministry said another prisoner swap took place on Friday, though neither side disclosed how many soldiers were involved.

Statistics:

• 550 drones and missiles were launched by Russia during the night.
• 270 targets were shot down by Ukrainian air defences.
• An additional 208 targets were lost from radar and presumed jammed.
• 14 people were hospitalized as a result of the attack.
• At least 26 people were wounded, including a child.
• 2 cruise missiles were shot down by Ukrainian air defences.
• 63 drones were successfully hit by Russian forces.

Sources:

• Associated Press (AP)
• Yuri Ushakov, Russian Foreign Affairs Adviser
• Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukrainian President
• Donald Trump, U.S. President
• Andrii Sybiha, Ukrainian Foreign Minister
• Yuliia Svyrydenko, Ukrainian Economy Minister
• Vitali Klitschko, Kyiv Mayor
• Russian Defence Ministry