In the early hours of January 1, 2025, Russia launched a rare and devastating drone attack on central Kyiv, claiming the lives of two individuals and wounding seven, including two pregnant women. The strike targeted the Pechersky district, home to Ukraine’s presidential palace and government buildings, marking one of the most direct assaults on the Ukrainian capital in recent months.
Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal confirmed the casualties in a social media post, while the Prosecutor General’s Office revealed that the injuries were caused by falling debris, suggesting that Ukraine’s air defense systems successfully intercepted the drones before they reached their intended targets. Despite the interception of 109 of the 111 drones launched, debris caused significant damage, including to apartment blocks and the central bank’s headquarters.
The attack came mere hours after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a New Year’s address, vowing to end the war in 2025. Reacting to the strike, Zelensky condemned Russia’s aggression, saying, “Even on New Year’s night, Russia only cares about hurting Ukraine.”
Journalists in Kyiv reported hearing multiple powerful explosions throughout the night, highlighting the ongoing threat to civilians. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently warned of more strikes on Kyiv, positioning them as retaliatory actions against Ukraine’s use of U.S.-supplied weapons on Russian soil.
The assault underscores escalating tensions between the two nations, particularly as both ramp up aerial operations to secure a strategic advantage. The drone attacks also cast a shadow over the imminent inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who has controversially claimed he can broker a peace deal within hours. His statements have sparked concerns in Kyiv about potential compromises that may favor Moscow.
Elsewhere in Ukraine, a separate attack in Kherson claimed the life of a 23-year-old volunteer named Pasha, remembered for his efforts in the city’s recovery since its liberation in 2022.
As Ukraine enters the new year, the persistent violence underscores the challenges ahead for Zelensky’s government in seeking peace and protecting its citizens amidst relentless aggression.
