Russia Launches Missile and Drone Attacks on Kyiv Ahead of Zelenskyy-Trump Meeting

Russia launched a series of missile and drone attacks on Kyiv on Saturday, resulting in at least one death and 27 injuries, according to Ukrainian authorities. The assault targeted both residential areas and energy infrastructure, causing significant damage and power outages across the capital.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attacks, stating they demonstrate Russian President Vladimir Putin's lack of interest in peace. Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida on Sunday to discuss security guarantees and territorial issues, particularly concerning the Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions.

The Russian Defense Ministry described the operation as a "massive strike" using long-range precision-guided weapons, including Kinzhal hypersonic missiles and drones, targeting energy infrastructure and military-industrial facilities. However, several residential buildings were also struck. The ministry stated the strike was in response to Ukrainian attacks on civilian objects in Russia.

In response to the escalation, Poland scrambled fighter jets and temporarily closed airports near its border with Ukraine, although no airspace violations were reported. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced $1.8 billion in economic assistance to Ukraine, aiming to support reconstruction and development efforts.

The attacks come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve the nearly four-year conflict, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the importance of securing NATO-style defense guarantees from the U.S. and addressing territorial disputes in upcoming talks.