Russia struck Ukraine's capital with a wave of missiles and drones early Monday, killing at least 10 people and wounding dozens more, authorities said. The assault hit apartment buildings and other civilian infrastructure across the city. It came just hours before NATO leaders are set to gather in Turkey for a summit where Ukraine's defense needs will dominate the agenda.
The attack is the second major barrage on Kyiv in less than a week, signaling an escalation in long-range strikes as both sides expand the reach of the conflict. The timing—directly ahead of the NATO gathering—appears designed to test the alliance's resolve. Ukrainian officials have warned that such assaults aim to break civilian morale and extract concessions.
Casualty reports varied across sources: the Associated Press initially reported at least three dead, while Reuters and NBC News cited at least seven. France 24 and NPR later confirmed a death toll of at least 10, with dozens injured. Multiple residential buildings were struck, and debris was scattered across several districts.
U.S. President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the summit, according to reports from The Independent. The meeting is expected to focus on continued military aid and potential peace negotiations. NATO allies are under pressure to provide additional air defense systems to Kyiv.
Critics argue the alliance's incremental support has failed to deter Russian aggression. Some European leaders caution that without clear membership commitments, the summit risks sending a signal of weakness that Moscow could exploit.