DATA & FIGURES
At least 2 people have been killed, and 16 injured, with 11 people initially reported injured, and the number later rising. Russian forces have launched a major drone and missile attack, with multiple fires breaking out across the city. Russia controls approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory, mostly seized in the first few months of its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
THE SCENARIO
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has escalated, with Russia launching a major missile and drone attack on Kyiv. The attack comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned of a 'massive' Russian attack, and Poland has activated fighter jets to protect its airspace. The situation is critical, with people trapped under rubble and multiple fires breaking out across the city.
DIRECT QUOTE
"I urge our people to be especially careful, to protect themselves, their children, and, of course, their families." — Volodymyr Zelensky, President of Ukraine
BBN INSIGHT
The Positive Side: Ukrainian commanders say they have recaptured more territory this year than they have lost, disrupting Moscow's crucial supply lines between the Russian border and occupied Crimea. The Negative Side: The war has otherwise stalled for months, with each side's troops largely entrenched in their positions, and Russia controls approximately one-fifth of Ukrainian territory. The attack on Kyiv will likely lead to increased tensions between Russia and Ukraine, as well as with neighboring countries, such as Poland, which has activated its fighter jets to protect its airspace.