Investing.com - In an unprecedented display of aggression, Russia launched a large-scale drone attack on Kyiv, the Ukrainian capital, catching residents off-guard during their city's anniversary celebrations. The pre-dawn airstrikes occurred on the final Sunday of May - known as Kyiv Day - which commemorates the founding of the ancient city 1,541 years ago.
Ukrainian military sources reported that they managed to shoot down 58 out of the 59 Iranian-made "kamikaze" drones involved in this record-breaking offensive. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed that all 36 drones specifically targeting Kyiv had been destroyed.
The overnight attacks resulted in at least one fatality and several injuries among civilians due to falling debris from damaged structures. Despite these tragic losses and a night spent huddled in shelters, many citizens ventured into the streets later that day to partake in scaled-down festivities including live music performances, food stalls, and craft shows.
President Zelenskiy criticized Russia for its violent actions during his nightly address: "Strength is in people; it is in cities; it is in life... When life, people, and important cultural cities are despised by Russia – defeat will be inevitable."
Moscow has yet to issue any statements regarding these recent events but has previously reiterated its commitment to achieving its objectives within Ukraine.
With tensions escalating between both countries amid concerns over an impending Ukrainian counteroffensive against Russian forces occupying key territories since April last year – locals remain defiant while striving to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst ongoing hostilities.