Putin’s Terror Escalates: Russia Unleashes Deadly Barrage on Kyiv as Civilian Deaths Soar

Russia’s war on Ukraine reached new heights of brutality last night as Vladimir Putin’s forces launched a massive combined missile and drone assault on Kyiv and several other regions. The attack, which saw hundreds of Shahed drones and various types of missiles rain down on civilian areas, left at least two dead, dozens wounded, and triggered widespread fires across the capital.

Ukrainian officials report that the onslaught involved 397 drones and missiles, overwhelming air defense systems and forcing thousands of Kyiv’s residents to spend the night sheltering in subway stations. Emergency services battled “balls of orange flames” as debris from downed missiles ignited residential buildings.

June has already set a grim record, with over 230 civilians killed and more than 1,300 injured— the highest toll since the early days of the full-scale invasion. The UN estimates that since February 2022, at least 13,580 civilians, including 716 children, have lost their lives in Russia’s campaign of terror.

Despite repeated international calls for peace, diplomatic efforts have stalled. As Russia intensifies its attacks, Ukrainian officials warn that Moscow’s goal is not only to destroy infrastructure, but to break the will of the population.

“This is a clear escalation of Russian terror,” President Volodymyr Zelensky stated, urging Western partners to speed up weapons deliveries and strengthen sanctions.

The relentless bombardment comes as Ukraine faces uncertainty over future U.S. aid and fears a possible shift in American policy. Germany has announced plans to purchase more Patriot systems for Ukraine, while the U.S. has reportedly paused some missile deliveries due to its own depleted reserves.

Analysts warn that Putin’s strategy of mass drone and missile barrages is designed to overwhelm Ukraine’s defenses and test the resolve of its Western allies. As the front line heats up and Russia pushes forward on multiple axes, the humanitarian crisis deepens—and the world is left to reckon with the consequences of unchecked aggression.