At least seven explosions shook the city of Kiev this Monday morning amid a national alert about possible Russian air attacks on Ukraine. The Ukrainian Defense Ministry emphasized that the free world must unite to end Russian terrorism, as the country faced a massive missile attack targeting its cities.
The head of the Kiev Military Administration, Sergei Popko, confirmed that anti-aircraft defenses were activated in the outskirts of the capital, urging residents to seek shelter in bunkers, basements, or railway stations. Explosions were also reported in other parts of Ukraine, including Lutsk, where one civilian was confirmed dead and infrastructure was damaged.
In Dnipropetrovsk, a 69-year-old man lost his life during the attack, with additional casualties reported in Zaporizhia and Poltava regions. The attacks were largely directed against Ukraine's energy sector, prompting electricity cuts and water supply disruptions in Kiev, according to local officials.
This offensive followed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's announcement of territorial gains in the Russian region of Kursk, where Ukrainian forces continue to advance. Zelensky noted that his troops are taking prisoners among Russian soldiers, highlighting the ongoing conflict's intensity.
Meanwhile, in Alaska, a landslide in Ketchikan resulted in one death and several injuries, prompting evacuations and emergency declarations. Ketchikan Mayor Dave Kiffer described the landslide as unprecedented in his 65 years in the area, with significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
As evacuations intensify in eastern Ukraine's Donetsk region due to Russian advances, national police are focusing efforts on ensuring the safety of children and vulnerable populations. The situation remains dire, with reports of continuous bombardments and destruction in affected areas.
In a related development, a Ukrainian attack on the Belgorod region resulted in civilian casualties, further escalating tensions between the two nations. The ongoing conflict continues to impact both military and civilian life across the region.