Russia launched its largest combined attack in months on Kyiv overnight, firing 215 missiles and drones across Ukraine. Death counts rose throughout the day, reaching 12 killed and 90 injured in Kyiv alone. Six districts were damaged, including a metro station.
Ukrainian F-16 and Mirage fighters participated in intercepting 112 targets. Zelensky ordered his defense minister to immediately request additional air defense systems from partners, while cutting short his South Africa visit.
Trump responded with an unusual direct appeal to Putin: "Vladimir, stop!" He later claimed Russia was ready to make concessions and set a deadline for peace talks. Bloomberg reported the US will demand Russia recognize Ukraine's right to its own military.
Zelensky suggested North Korean missiles may have been used in the attack, which appeared timed to disrupt the London peace talks that had collapsed the previous day after Trump's ultimatum demanding territorial concessions.