Explosions occurred in the capital as early as Wednesday evening, local time. At midnight, the air defense was activated again after Russia fired ballistic missiles and drones at the city.
According to Ukraine's air force, Russia has fired 629 drones and missiles during the night, which is the second highest figure during the Russian invasion war. Among them were two hypersonic Kinzhal missiles, which are said to be almost impossible to shoot down with regular air defense.
Central Kyiv
Nearly 100 buildings have been damaged in at least 20 locations, according to Kyiv's military administration. Some of the projectiles reached the central parts of the city, which has only happened a few times since the start of the war.
It has never happened before that they have attacked so close, says 21-year-old Sophia Akylina, whose residence was damaged in the attacks, to AP.
The news agency AFP reports that many Kyiv residents took shelter under bridges and in subway stations.
"Do not leave the shelters," warned the city's mayor Vitalij Klytjko on Telegram during the night.
Children killed
The death toll has gradually increased during Thursday and is expected to continue to rise. At least 17 people have been killed, including four children between 2 and 17 years old, according to Kyiv's government. Around 50 people have been injured, according to local authorities. People may also still be trapped under debris from damaged buildings.
"Russia is still taking advantage of the fact that at least parts of the world are turning a blind eye to murdered children and seeking excuses for Putin," writes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyj on X.
Russia's defense ministry states on Telegram that Ukrainian military facilities have been attacked in a "group attack". The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitrij Peskov says that Russia will continue to attack Ukraine but that they are "still interested" in diplomacy.
The Russian armed forces are fulfilling their tasks, he says.
According to The Kyiv Independent, Russian drones were seen in several places in the country during the night.
