Russian Missile and Drone Strikes Hit Kyiv and Other Areas

At 3:00 a.m. (0100 GMT), Ukraine’s air force issued a ballistic missile warning, followed by at least two explosions in Kyiv minutes later. Another missile alert was triggered at 8:00 a.m., with one explosion reported in the city. In the aftermath, missile debris was found in Kyiv's Darnytskyi district, although local authorities confirmed there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.

In the northeastern Sumy region, Russian strikes hit near the city of Shostka, causing significant damage. Mayor Mykola Noha reported that 12 residential buildings and two educational facilities were destroyed. He also mentioned the destruction of several "social infrastructure objects," although further details were not immediately available.

The Ukrainian air force confirmed multiple missile and drone strikes targeting other regions, further exacerbating the challenges faced by the war-torn country.

Ukraine's energy infrastructure, already ravaged by previous attacks, has borne the brunt of Russia's offensive, with around half of it destroyed during the ongoing conflict. Rolling electricity blackouts remain a widespread issue across the country.

While Ukraine has received advanced air defense systems from its Western allies, Russia continues to challenge these defenses by launching coordinated attacks with large numbers of missiles and drones.

This latest wave of strikes comes at a time of heightened uncertainty surrounding the future of the conflict. With U.S. President-elect Donald Trump set to take office next month, his promises to end the war have raised questions about the future of American military support for Ukraine.

On Monday, President Joe Biden responded by announcing an additional $2.5 billion in military aid to Ukraine, ensuring continued U.S. assistance during the final weeks of his administration.

Despite heavy losses, Russia has maintained the initiative in the war, pushing steadily through Ukrainian defenses in the east through a series of methodical offensives. The ongoing conflict shows no signs of abating as both sides brace for further escalation.