Massive Drone Assault Strikes Kyiv, Marking the Largest Attack in Ukraine's Ongoing Conflict

According to officials, Russia has carried out its largest drone attack on Kyiv since the start of its invasion of Ukraine last year. Residents were awoken by explosions early on Saturday morning, as waves of attacks from the north and east hit the city. More than 75 Iranian-made Shahed drones were fired at the capital, with 74 being shot down. The use of Shahed drones is seen as a cost-effective alternative for Russia due to its dwindling missile stocks. Although only five people were reported injured in the attack, a kindergarten and other buildings were damaged. Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, condemned the attack as an act of "wilful terror" and highlighted that it took place on the same day Ukraine commemorates the Holodomor famine. There were concerns that Russia would target Ukraine's energy infrastructure, and indeed, 16,000 homes in the central Kyiv region were left without power. However, authorities have shown their ability to quickly repair damaged infrastructure, and Ukraine's air defences have also improved. Despite this, such strikes still result in loss of life, destruction, fear, and disruption.