Russia launches largest drone and missile attack on Ukraine's capital

On September 7, 2025, Ukraine experienced a major military assault when Russia launched its largest drone and missile attack since the onset of the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed that the cabinet building in Kyiv was one of the primary targets struck during this aerial assault. In total, Ukraine's air force reported that 810 drones and 13 missiles were fired at various locations across the country, marking a significant escalation in hostilities. While many drones and missiles were intercepted, with 747 drones and four missiles shot down, several still managed to impact critical infrastructure, leading to casualties and damage. The air force's operational report indicated that at least two people were killed in Kyiv due to the strike, while additional impacts were recorded in other regions, including Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, Chernihiv, Dnipro, Kremenchuk, and Odesa. The widespread attack caused significant concern across the nation, as air raid alerts lasted for several hours, highlighting the ongoing threat posed by Russian military activities. Local officials worked diligently to assess the damage and respond to emergencies resulting from the attacks. Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko commented on the damage incurred, noting that the attack compromised the roof and upper floors of the cabinet building, located in Kyiv's historic Pecherskyi district. The Prime Minister expressed gratitude towards the air force's performance in mitigating the attack. However, she also emphasized the tragic loss of life and condemned the ongoing violence, stating that the current aggressions contribute to the prolongation of the war. These sentiments were echoed by Zelenskyy, who criticized Russia's actions during a conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron. Both leaders discussed the urgent need for further defensive measures in light of the deteriorating security situation. Macron remarked on Russia's persistent embrace of warfare and terror tactics, indicating a grim outlook for ongoing diplomatic efforts. In the wake of this intense military episode, international reactions emerged, with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressing his dismay over the attacks, referring to Russia's actions as unserious in relation to peace initiatives. The Ukraine conflict continues to prominently affect civilian populations, as evidenced by the casualties and widespread alarm instigated by the attacks, which further complicate the already tense situation on the ground.