At least 11 people were killed in Kyiv following a second night of Russian strikes on the Ukrainian capital this week, according to local officials. The city's top military administrator, Timur Tkachenko, reported that 46 others were injured, including five children. Rescue efforts are ongoing at more than 20 locations where residential high-rise buildings were hit in two districts. Three additional fatalities occurred in the wider Kyiv region, emergency officials stated.
Key Details
The strikes took place just hours before a NATO summit in Turkey, where Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was expected to hold discussions with President Trump. Zelensky had previously warned that Moscow was preparing for another significant attack on Kyiv, following a previous assault that resulted in 30 deaths. The recent missile strikes led to loud explosions and activated Ukraine's air defenses, prompting many residents to seek shelter underground.
Background
Kyiv Mayor Vitaly Klitschko noted that Russian ballistic missiles struck several buildings, causing fires in some apartment complexes. Widespread destruction was visible the following morning, with reports of three large blocks of flats partially collapsing. Rescue operations have been complicated as helicopters transported water to extinguish fires in the city.
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The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to create volatility in energy markets, particularly affecting oil and gas prices due to concerns over supply disruptions. Investors will watch for updates from the NATO summit regarding potential military support for Ukraine and any strategic responses from Russia.