**Russia Launches Missile and Drone Strikes on Kyiv, Killing 14 and Wounding Over 100**
In a devastating attack, Russia launched waves of missiles and drones on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv before dawn on Thursday. The assault resulted in at least 14 people being killed, including a six-year-old boy, and left over 100 others wounded.
According to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, who spoke in his nightly video address, the death toll stands at 14, with dozens more injured. Ukraine’s national rescue service reported that 15 people were killed and 145 injured in the attack.
**Rescue Efforts Underway**
Rescuers worked through the night to put out fires and dig through rubble in an effort to reach those trapped under the debris. Over 1,200 police and rescuers were involved in the relief efforts, with many more on standby.
Zelenskiy emphasized that dozens of people remain in hospital, including 14 children who were among the injured. This marks the largest number of children hurt in a single attack on the city since Russia’s full-scale invasion began nearly three-and-a-half years ago.
**Russia Denies Targeting Civilians**
Despite claims from Russian authorities that they targeted Ukrainian military airfields and ammunition depots, as well as businesses linked to Kyiv’s military-industrial complex, many civilians were caught in the crossfire. City authorities have announced a day of mourning to be held on Friday.
In an earlier post on Telegram, Zelenskiy said Russia had launched over 300 drones and eight missiles, calling it “Russia’s response to our desire for peace… Therefore, peace without strength is impossible.”
**Recent Escalation**
This attack marks the latest in a series of escalated air strikes by Russia on Ukrainian towns and cities far from the front lines of the war. Thousands of civilians have been killed since Moscow invaded in 2022.
While there have been three rounds of talks between Kyiv and Moscow, no breakthrough has been made to defuse the conflict. The international community is watching with concern as tensions continue to rise.
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