13-11-2024 (KYIV) Russia launched its first significant missile assault on the Ukrainian capital since August on Wednesday morning, sending residents scrambling for shelter as explosions echoed across the city, though air defences successfully intercepted multiple incoming projectiles.
Ukrainian air defence forces claimed to have shot down two cruise missiles, two ballistic missiles, and 37 drones in a coordinated defence operation across the country. While no major casualties or damage were reported within Kyiv itself, debris from intercepted projectiles caused injuries and sparked a warehouse fire in the surrounding region.
“The morning assault marks Putin’s latest missile attack on Kyiv,” announced Andriy Yermak, head of the presidential office, via Telegram. The attack forced approximately 100 civilians, including young children and elderly residents, to seek refuge in the Universitet metro station, where makeshift sleeping arrangements were hastily assembled.
The strikes come amid growing concerns about potential attacks on Ukraine’s power infrastructure as winter approaches. Andrii Kovalenko, a senior National Security and Defence Council official, had previously warned of Russia’s capability to conduct “massive” attacks, citing intelligence about accumulated cruise missile stockpiles.
In response to the assault, power grid operator Ukrenergo implemented restrictions on electricity supply to businesses across multiple regions, including Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipro, and Donetsk, citing reduced power imports and generation capacity.
The capital has endured almost nightly drone attacks in recent weeks, but this marks the first major missile strike since the devastating August 26 assault that claimed seven lives and involved over 200 drones and missiles.
“The constant alerts are destroying our daily lives,” said Mykyta, a student sheltering in the metro with his dog. “Since starting college in September, every morning has been disrupted by these attacks. Sleep is impossible, and I’m surviving on energy drinks.”
The latest assault underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Ukraine’s urban centres to Russian strikes, despite enhanced air defence capabilities and international support.
