Russia strikes Kyiv ahead of NATO summit, killing at least 11

Russia struck Kyiv with ballistic missiles and drones early Monday, killing at least 11 people in the Kyiv region and wounding dozens more just as NATO leaders prepared to gather in Turkey. The assault hit apartment buildings and other residential areas, leaving some residents trapped in damaged multi-story blocks. The summit was expected to focus on Ukraine’s air defenses and battlefield support.

The attack was the second major Russian strike on Kyiv in less than a week. Moscow has intensified long-range attacks on the capital. Death toll tallies rose through the morning, with counts reaching 14, 15, 20 and even 24 dead as authorities continued to assess damage and casualties. Widespread destruction hit districts including Podilsky and Darnytskyi, where residential buildings took heavy damage.

Hours before the strike, President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Moscow was preparing a new massive attack. After the assault, he pressed NATO to make what he called “strong decisions” and to reinforce Ukraine’s air defenses, including Patriots and other systems capable of intercepting missiles and drones before they reach city neighborhoods.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also urged allies to put air defense at the center of the summit agenda. U.S. President Donald Trump was expected to attend in Ankara alongside other NATO leaders.