Russia Hits Kyiv and Odesa in One of Largest Attacks of War

Russia carried out one of the war’s most intense airstrikes on Kyiv, damaging a historic cathedral and killing three people across Ukraine, in a bombardment President Zelenskiy called a direct attempt to drown out peace efforts.

Historic Sites and Hospitals Targeted

The strikes, which began overnight on June 10, hit seven of Kyiv’s ten districts, with explosions shaking the capital and heavy smoke rising over the city. Ukrainian Culture Minister Mykola Tochytsky confirmed that Saint Sophia Cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—suffered damage. “The enemy struck at the very heart of our identity again,” he wrote.

In Odesa, drones struck an emergency medical facility and a maternity ward. Two men were killed, and several buildings were damaged. Patients and newborns were safely evacuated, but shrapnel injuries were reported.

Ukraine Intercepts Majority of Projectiles

Ukraine’s air force reported downing 277 out of 315 drones and all 7 missiles launched by Russia. The five-hour raid followed Ukraine’s strike on Russian bomber bases on June 1 and a series of retaliatory Russian bombardments. In total, 1,451 drones and 78 missiles have been fired at Ukraine over the past week.

Moscow Confirms Attacks, Cites Retaliation

Russia’s defense ministry confirmed it had targeted military facilities using “high-precision” weapons. Ukrainian officials argue that Russia’s pattern of targeting hospitals, aid depots, and heritage sites amounts to systematic terror.

Air raid sirens in Kyiv lasted until around 5 a.m. “A difficult night for all of us,” said Kyiv military administrator Timur Tkachenko.

Peace Talks Stall Amid Rising Death Toll

While Moscow and Kyiv have engaged in recent prisoner exchange talks, there is no progress toward a ceasefire. President Trump has voiced frustration with both parties. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called for immediate international sanctions and air defense reinforcements.