At least two people have been killed following overnight drone strikes by Russia on Kyiv, as Ukraine and Russia continue intense fighting just a day before Moscow’s Victory Day celebrations.
Kyiv’s Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that debris from a Russian drone strike hit a residential building, killing two people and injuring seven, including four children. Fires were reported in several districts due to falling debris.
Meanwhile, Moscow was also targeted by drones for the third consecutive night, leading to temporary airport closures. Russian authorities claim their air defences shot down at least 14 Ukrainian drones, with no reported damage.
These escalations occur amid Russia’s planned three-day ceasefire to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two. President Putin has proposed the truce to coincide with Victory in Europe Day events, which will also be attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, Ukraine has rejected the brief truce, calling it “pointless” and pushing instead for a month-long ceasefire, in line with a U.S.-backed proposal from March.
A previous Easter truce collapsed quickly amid mutual accusations of violations.
