A series of explosions erupted in the heart of Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, and its eastern neighborhoods on Saturday night. This was confirmed by AFP journalists present on the scene. Simultaneously, Ukraine’s air force announced that two Russian missiles were en route to the city. The alarming news was met by the immediate activation of air raid sirens throughout the capital. An AFP reporter witnessed at least two flashes illuminate the night sky. Kyiv’s military administration confirmed the activation of the city’s air defense systems in a Telegram post. Beyond Kyiv, Ukraine’s air force reported that five other regions were under attack by drones.
Recent days have seen a surge in apprehension among Ukrainians, fearing that Moscow might retaliate against Kyiv’s recent offensive within Russian territory with air raids. Ukrainian officials have yet to release any details regarding potential casualties or damage incurred during the attacks.
Ukraine has been repeatedly targeted by deadly Russian air strikes, employing both missiles and drones. In response, Kyiv has persistently called upon its Western allies to furnish them with more sophisticated air-defense systems.
Meanwhile, on the Russian side, Alexei Smirnov, the governor of the Kursk region, revealed that 13 individuals sustained injuries, two critically, in Kursk city. This incident occurred during the night when debris from a downed Ukrainian missile impacted a building.
