Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of having no intention of ending the war after what he described as one of the largest aerial assaults since the invasion began.
According to Ukrainian authorities, Russia launched nearly 500 drones and around 40 missiles in an overnight attack that struck Kyiv and several other regions early on Saturday.
At least one person was killed and more than 20 others were wounded as explosions rocked the capital, forcing residents into shelters for hours. Ukraine’s air force declared a nationwide air alert, warning that waves of drones and missiles were crossing multiple regions, including Kyiv.
“The Russians do not want to end the war,” Zelensky said, adding that Moscow is using “every opportunity to cause Ukraine even greater suffering.” He made the remarks as the barrage targeted civilian neighbourhoods and energy infrastructure, leaving thousands without heat during winter conditions.
Kyiv city officials said more than 2,600 residential buildings were left without heating after the strikes damaged power facilities. Ukraine’s largest private electricity provider, DTEK, reported emergency power cuts on the left bank of the capital, as crews rushed to stabilise the grid.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that air defence systems were actively intercepting incoming threats. “Explosions in the capital. Air defence forces are operating. Stay in shelters,” he urged residents in a message on Telegram during the attack.
Zelensky warned that Russia’s actions during the Christmas and New Year period showed a deliberate attempt to intensify pressure on Ukraine and its allies. In a post on X, he called on the United States and Europe to take stronger measures against Moscow, arguing that continued aggression could only be met with firm international responses.
The attacks came as Zelensky prepared to travel to the United States for talks with President Donald Trump on potential steps to halt the Russian invasion. Diplomatic activity also intensified in Europe, with a European Commission spokesperson confirming that Commission President Ursula von der Leyen would join a call with Zelensky, Trump and other European leaders.
The impact of the strikes was felt beyond Ukraine’s borders. Poland temporarily closed two airports in the south eastern cities of Rzeszow and Lublin, while Polish armed forces scrambled fighter jets as a precaution following the Russian assault.
Polish air navigation authorities said the closures were necessary to ensure civilian safety amid heightened regional tensions.
As Ukraine continues to rely heavily on air defences to repel such attacks, officials warned that Russia’s growing use of drones and missiles poses an ongoing threat to civilian life and critical infrastructure.
Zelensky reiterated that only sustained international pressure could deter further escalation, insisting that the latest assault demonstrated Moscow’s unwillingness to pursue peace.