Drones and Missiles Blackout Kyiv Amid Ukraine War Children Rescued
Early Friday, Kyiv endured a large-scale Russian drone and missile attack that cut power and injured civilians across the city. Amid this chaos, Ukraine war children were rescued as part of the government’s emergency response.
The missile barrage ignited a fire in a high-rise building and disabled key energy and water systems. The eastern districts, especially those along the Dnipro River, were hit hardest. Officials confirmed nine injuries, with five people hospitalized. As the strikes continued, the Ukrainian air force urged residents to remain in shelters.
Ukraine War Children Rescued in “Bring Kids Back UA” Operatio
President Zelenskyy’s administration confirmed that 23 children and adolescents were evacuated from Russian-occupied territories. This effort falls under the “Bring Kids Back UA” initiative, which aims to return minors forcibly relocated or trapped in occupied zones.
According to chief of staff Andriy Yermak, several of the rescued children had resisted forced Russian schooling and re-education programs.
U.S. and NATO Ramp Up Pressure on Russia
With peace negotiations stalled, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Washington and NATO are increasing both diplomatic and economic pressure on Russia. He hinted that further sanctions may be introduced if missile strikes on Ukraine continue.
Strategic Counterstrikes and Energy Restoration
In response to Russian aggression, Ukraine launched targeted missile and drone strikes. These attacks reportedly hit oil depots and supply hubs, including key locations in Russia’s Volgograd region.
Russia accused Ukraine of damaging an ammonia pipeline near Donetsk, resulting in a gas leak. Meanwhile, officials have started reconnecting the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant to the grid, with assistance from the IAEA.
