Zelenskyy describes Russia's latest attack on Kyiv as one of worst yet

Russian forces launched a heavy overnight assault on Ukraine in the early hours of June 17, deploying at least 440 drones and 32 missiles of various types in what the Ukrainian president described as one of the most horrifying strikes on Kyiv since the start of the full-scale invasion.

"Interior Minister Klymenko and military commanders are providing regular updates on the aftermath of the massive Russian strike. Over 440 drones and 32 missiles were used. One of the worst attacks on Kyiv. Odesa, Zaporizhzhia, Chernihiv, Zhytomyr, Kirovohrad, Mykolaiv, and the Kyiv region were also hit overnight," Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said, Caliber.Az reports via Ukrainian media.

In Kyiv, rescue operations continued throughout the day as emergency workers searched for survivors in the rubble of a heavily damaged residential building.

"It’s unclear how many people are still trapped. An entire section of the building was destroyed. Homes in eight districts of Kyiv were damaged. Recovery operations are still ongoing in Odesa. Emergency services are working at all impact sites. Medical aid is being provided to all victims. So far, 75 people have been reported injured, and 15 have been confirmed dead. My condolences to their families and loved ones," Zelenskyy stated.

The president condemned the attacks as acts of terrorism and called on the international community, particularly the United States and Europe, to take decisive action in response.

"Putin is doing this simply because he's still able to continue this war. He wants the war to go on. It's unacceptable for global powers to turn a blind eye. We are in contact with our partners at all levels to ensure there's a proper response. It’s the terrorists who must feel the pain - not ordinary, peaceful people," Zelenskyy emphasised.

The assault on Kyiv began in the early hours of the morning, initially causing damage at 12 locations across the capital. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko later confirmed that the number of affected sites had risen to 27.

During the barrage, two districts in Kyiv experienced temporary power outages after automatic protection systems were triggered. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko also confirmed that a US citizen was among the casualties.

Emergency services remain on high alert as search and recovery efforts continue across multiple cities hit in the overnight attack.

By Sabina Mammadli