Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's diplomatic mission to South Africa takes an unexpected turn as Russian forces launch a devastating aerial assault on Kyiv.
According to Breitbart, the most significant attack on Ukraine's capital since July 2024 has resulted in at least nine deaths and 80 injuries, prompting President Donald Trump to demand an immediate end to Russian aggression.
The massive overnight assault, which persisted for 11 hours, involved a combination of missiles and drones targeting Kyiv and seven other Ukrainian regions. Ukrainian officials confirm that 31 people, including five children, required hospitalization while rescue teams continue their search for approximately twelve individuals who remain trapped beneath the rubble.
Trump demands immediate peace negotiations
President Trump took to social media to express his frustration with both parties involved in the conflict. His stern message directly addressed Russian leadership, particularly calling out Vladimir Putin's actions as unnecessary and poorly timed.
The U.S. president highlighted the devastating toll of the ongoing conflict, noting that approximately 5,000 soldiers lose their lives weekly. Trump's administration has intensified efforts to broker peace between the warring nations.
Ukrainian authorities maintain they have already agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal, placing responsibility for continued civilian casualties squarely on Russian forces.
Massive aerial assault details emerge
President Zelensky, speaking from South Africa, provided a detailed account of the attack:
Nearly 70 missiles, including ballistic ones. And about 150 attack drones. Unfortunately, there is significant destruction. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the rubble of residential buildings is being cleared. As of this moment, over 80 people have been injured across Ukraine. Everyone is receiving the necessary assistance. Regrettably, 9 people have been killed in Kyiv.
The Ukrainian Air Force Command reported tracking 215 aerial targets during the assault. Their defense systems successfully neutralized 48 missiles and 64 drones, while 68 additional projectiles failed to reach their intended targets.
The sophisticated weaponry deployed included 11 Iskander ballistic missiles, 37 Kodiak air-launched cruise missiles, 12 Kalibir missiles, and 145 Shahed-type attack drones.
Diplomatic mission cut short amid crisis
The timing of the attack coincided with Zelensky's arrival in South Africa, where he aimed to expand international support for Ukraine's position in the conflict.
The Ukrainian president promptly adjusted his schedule, announcing his early return after completing crucial discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Russia continues to deny targeting civilian infrastructure, dismissing Ukrainian reports as propaganda while maintaining that their strikes focus exclusively on military objectives.
Understanding the devastating assault on Kyiv
The massive Russian attack on Kyiv represents the most significant strike against the Ukrainian capital in nine months, resulting in nine confirmed deaths and 80 injuries. The assault, utilizing hundreds of missiles and drones, lasted 11 hours and targeted multiple Ukrainian regions.
The incident occurred during President Zelensky's diplomatic visit to South Africa, forcing him to cut short his mission and return home. As rescue operations continue and President Trump pushes for immediate peace negotiations, the attack marks a serious escalation in the conflict, with both sides maintaining opposing narratives about the nature and purpose of the strikes.
