Russian drone strike injures 7 in Kyiv as air defences battle overnight assault: city officials

A Russian drone attack targeted Kyiv in the early hours of Saturday, injuring seven people, according to city authorities. The residents heard loud explosions around midnight as air defence units engaged incoming drones, reported AFP.

Tymur Tkachenko, head of the city’s military administration, said on Telegram that enemy drones were over the capital and several targets were detected on its outskirts.

Mayor Vitaly Klitschko urged residents to remain in shelters during the attack. He confirmed that seven people were injured, with four taken to hospital, and earlier noted that a 13-year-old child was among those wounded. Residential buildings in several districts were damaged, along with several cars.

Earlier this week, Russian drones and missiles struck Kyiv during the night and set apartment buildings on fire. City officials said seven people were killed in those attacks.

More from World

Did the US peace plan echo talking points previously floated by Russia? US Army Secretary Driscoll holds talks with Russia in Abu Dhabi in new push for Ukraine peace deal

Peace talks in focus

The latest strike comes as peace efforts continue. Ukrainian negotiators are set to travel to the United States this weekend for discussions on Washington’s proposal to end the war, a senior official told AFP. The source, who requested anonymity, said the meetings are expected at the end of the week and may take place in Florida.

The official added that Andriy Yermak, previously President Volodymyr Zelensky’s chief of staff, had been due to take part before his dismissal on Friday.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, triggering Europe’s worst armed conflict since the Second World War. The war has killed hundreds of thousands and forced millions from their homes.