Kyiv Reels from 'Night of Horror' as Russia Unleashes Massive Missile and Drone Barrage

Kyiv endured a devastating 'night of horror' overnight into Thursday, July 2, 2026, as Russia launched one of its most extensive missile and drone barrages on the Ukrainian capital, killing at least 11 and injuring over 50 people, including children. The widespread assault, which saw explosions rock the city for hours, caused significant damage to residential buildings and critical civilian infrastructure across 30 locations, just hours after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cut short a diplomatic visit due to intelligence warnings of an impending massive strike. This latest onslaught marks a brutal escalation in the conflict, with Russia Defense Ministry claiming the strikes targeted military and energy facilities in 'retaliation' for Ukraine recent long-range drone attack on Russian infrastructure. However, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha vehemently rejected these justifications, emphasizing Ukraine right to self-defense under Article 51 of the UN Charter and urging international partners to swiftly bolster Kyiv air defense capabilities. The incident comes amidst an intensified pattern of tit-for-tat long-range warfare, threatening to further destabilize the region and civilian life. As emergency services continue search and rescue operations, the international community has quickly condemned Russia actions, with leaders from the European Union, the UK, and Germany pledging new sanctions against Russia military-industrial complex and reaffirming their unwavering support for Ukraine. Ukraine, meanwhile, is pushing forward with its own indigenous defense innovations, like the recently deployed Ryf air defense system and testing laser interceptors, as it faces the ongoing challenge of protecting its cities from relentless aerial assaults. The focus now shifts to how quickly Ukraine allies will respond to the urgent calls for enhanced air defense, and what further countermeasures Kyiv might take.