Kyiv was jolted by powerful explosions early Saturday as Russian forces launched drones and missiles across multiple regions, prompting air raid alerts in the capital. Authorities said air defences were active as residents were urged to seek shelter. The attack came days before a planned meeting in the United States between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump, which Zelensky has said will focus on finalising elements of a proposed agreement to end the nearly four-year war between Russia and Ukraine, amid intensifying battlefield pressure and rising civilian anxiety.
⚡️Russia’s mass missile attack targets Kyiv ahead of upcoming Trump-Zelensky meeting.
Several waves of explosions were heard across the capital, according to Kyiv Independent reporters, as well as in Kyiv Oblast, where power outages were reported. https://t.co/jfh53u64id
— The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) December 27, 2025
Kyiv Hit, Air Defences Engaged
Ukraine’s capital came under attack after authorities warned of an imminent missile threat. Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said explosions were heard across the city as air defence systems intercepted incoming targets, urging residents to remain in shelters. Eyewitnesses cited by international news agencies reported loud blasts and bright flashes that briefly lit up the skyline, while unofficial Telegram channels also spoke of multiple impacts.
Missiles & Drones Reported
Ukraine’s Air Force said Russian drones and missiles were detected over several regions, including Kyiv. Military-linked Telegram channels claimed both cruise and ballistic missiles were deployed during the strike.
⚡️Explosions reported in Kyiv overnight on Dec. 27.
Explosions were reported in the capital in the early hours of Dec. 27, according to Kyiv Independent reporters on the ground. Ukraine’s Air Force warned of the possible missile threats for numerous regions.
— The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) December 27, 2025
The barrage unfolded as diplomatic activity gathered pace ahead of high-level talks in Washington, underscoring the volatile backdrop against which negotiations aimed at ending the war are expected to take place.
