A third of Kyiv is without power after massive bombing. Learn about the overnight attacks, impacts, and ongoing peace talks.

Ukraine, Kyiv, massive bombing, Russia, power outage, Zelensky, peace talks

Kyiv Faces Widespread Outages After Massive Bombing by Russia

By Adam Goldsmith and Tiffany Wertheimer

Overview of the Overnight Attacks in Kyiv

A third of residents in Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, are without power following a massive bombing targeting residential areas and critical infrastructure. Ukraine’s foreign minister reported the attacks left many homes without heating during freezing winter temperatures. At least one person has been confirmed dead and more than 30 others injured, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko.

The strikes, which happened just hours before President Volodymyr Zelensky was due to leave for Florida for peace talks with Donald Trump, have caused significant disruption and distress throughout Kyiv.

Extent of the Damage

• Large parts of Kyiv are without electricity and heating
• Apartment buildings and homes have suffered severe structural damage
• Emergency evacuations have taken place, including 68 people from a retirement home in the Darnytskyi district

Russian Strikes and Ukraine’s Response

Russia’s Ministry of Defence described the event as a “massive retaliatory strike” targeting Ukrainian energy infrastructure. The Russian government claimed the facilities hit were supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces and military-industrial complex. According to President Zelensky, Russia launched nearly 500 drones and 40 missiles towards Kyiv with the intention to inflict “more pain on Ukraine.”

Civilians and Journalists Affected

Many civilians, including BBC journalist Anastasiya Gribanova, were directly impacted, although Gribanova escaped unharmed. Some high-rise apartment blocks were set ablaze, leaving residents in shock.

International Reaction and Security Measures

The strikes prompted immediate response from Poland, which shares a border with Ukraine. Polish forces readied their air defence and fighter jets to protect their airspace but later confirmed no violations occurred. Additionally, Russia reported intercepting seven Ukrainian drones overnight.

Ongoing Peace Initiatives

In response to the escalating conflict, President Zelensky is set for phone calls with EU leaders and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, to discuss peace solutions. Zelensky has shared optimism about a new, streamlined 20-point draft peace plan, aiming for stronger guarantees from the US, NATO, and European partners in the event of future aggression.

However, Donbas remains a contentious point in negotiations, though the Ukrainian president hinted at a “free economic zone” to help resolve disputes. Meanwhile, Donald Trump, who is anticipated to meet Zelensky, claimed that final approval of the draft rests with him.

For more context on the conflict and responses from international communities, explore our coverage on
Ukraine War Updates.

The Path Forward

President Zelensky reiterated the need for Western allies to amplify their support, stating, “This sick activity can only be responded to with really strong steps.” He has called on the US, Europe, and Ukraine’s global partners to demonstrate their commitment to Ukraine by strengthening measures against Russian aggression.

For additional reporting and in-depth analysis, consult the authoritative sources at
BBC News – Russia-Ukraine war.

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Read the original article at BBC News source.