Russian strike hits Kyiv apartment block

A Russian missile strike hit a residential high-rise in Kyiv, igniting fires on upper floors and leaving at least 12 people injured, officials said. Flames and thick black smoke poured from the impacted wings as firefighters worked to contain intense heat, ventilate the structure and prevent further collapse; windows were shattered, walls scorched and balconies collapsed. Emergency crews and residents evacuated families, including children and pets, while first responders used ladders and hoses to reach upper levels. Local authorities reported that the injured include both civilians and responders, with several in serious condition and transported to hospitals.

The strike occurred amid a broader “massive attack” on the capital that plunged parts of the city into darkness, cut water and power supplies, and damaged infrastructure across multiple districts. Kyiv’s mayor said critical infrastructure was targeted and confirmed power outages and disruptions to water services on the east bank of the Dnipro River. Fragments from downed drones also struck parts of the city, and reporters heard multiple powerful explosions and experienced blackouts.

Ukraine’s air force warned of a combined assault by ballistic missiles and strike drones and urged residents to remain in shelters. The energy minister said a massive strike had been inflicted on the power grid and that specialists were working to limit and later repair damage. Authorities placed the country on alert amid fears of an incoming hypersonic Kinzhal missile, which is harder to detect and intercept.

The attack is part of a recent escalation by Moscow against Ukrainian energy facilities, rail systems and other infrastructure, echoing earlier winter campaigns that left civilians without heating. Kyiv officials condemned the strike as an assault on civilians and places of refuge. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of seeking to create chaos and apply psychological pressure through crippling energy and transport networks.

Separately, the Zaporizhzhia region reported at least seven overnight drone strikes that killed a seven-year-old and wounded others. Ukraine has intensified its own strikes on Russian territory, including a reported hit on a power station in Belgorod, prompting retaliatory disruptions. Russia accused Ukraine of rupturing a pipeline near the frontline, releasing a cloud of toxic gas; Ukrainian authorities said the incident did not threaten nearby populations. International observers and residents continue to monitor an escalating cycle of attacks and strikes affecting both civilian infrastructure and frontline targets.