Russia attacks Ukraine, killing at least 13

Russia launched a significant aerial attack on Ukraine, deploying 73 missiles and 656 drones overnight.Ukrainian officials reported at least 17 fatalities and over 100 injuries from this assault, which hit major cities including Kyiv and Dnipro.

High casualty toll

The attack began Monday evening, with Ukrainian air defenses managing to intercept 40 missiles and 602 drones.

Kyiv’s Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed four fatalities in the capital, along with 65 injuries, including children.

Dnipro reported the most casualties, with President Volodyr Zelensky stating that 11 people, including children, died when an apartment building collapsed.

Rescue operations are ongoing, with several individuals still unaccounted for.

Prior to the assault, Zelensky warned of impending strikes based on intelligence suggesting a significant Russian attack was imminent.

His calls for enhanced air defense highlighted the necessity for U.S. support in supplying Patriot missile systems.

Zelensky urged for Europe to develop its interceptor capabilities to lessen reliance on U.S. technology.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the attack, which EU officials labelled a deliberate escalation.

Ukraine’s air force reported that the attack featured various missile types, with over 30 ballistic missiles reaching 38 locations.

🚨 BREAKING: Russia Launches Massive Missile & Drone Strikes Across Kyiv, Kharkiv, Dnipro, Odesa And Other Ukrainian Cities.

Explosions Echo Across Ukraine As Air Raid Sirens Sound Nationwide. One Of The Largest Overnight Attacks In Recent Months Has Shocked The World. pic.twitter.com/7GdtI78bZZ

— America Millitary (@MillitaryStan) June 2, 2026

International condemnation

The barrage underscored weaknesses in Ukraine’s existing air defenses despite a majority of drones being intercepted.

As the situation develops, international reactions continue to shape the conversation regarding support for Ukraine.