Kyiv: A large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, in the early hours of Saturday has drawn strong condemnation from global leaders, with renewed calls for peace and firm support for Ukraine’s sovereignty. Leaders from France, Canada, Germany, NATO, and the European Union said the strikes showed little sign of Russia’s willingness to pursue a peaceful resolution to the ongoing war.
According to Ukrainian officials, Russia launched nearly 500 drones and around 40 missiles, including hypersonic weapons, targeting Kyiv and surrounding areas. The strikes caused widespread damage, leaving at least one person dead and 27 others injured, while triggering extensive power outages across the region.
Residential neighbourhoods were heavily affected, with approximately 2,600 homes damaged. More than 300 schools, preschools, and social service buildings also sustained destruction, disrupting essential public services. Energy and infrastructure facilities were among the main targets, further straining Ukraine’s already fragile power grid.
Russian military sources, quoted by international agencies, claimed the attacks were aimed at infrastructure and facilities allegedly linked to Ukraine’s armed forces. However, the scale of civilian damage has intensified international criticism.
Macron Says Russia Not Interested in Ending War
French President Emmanuel Macron said the overnight assault on Kyiv demonstrated that Moscow remains unwilling to bring the war to an end. Speaking after a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Macron underlined the stark contrast between Ukraine’s stated commitment to lasting peace and Russia’s continued military aggression.
French officials noted that the attack reinforced concerns among European leaders that Russia is determined to prolong the conflict it initiated nearly four years ago.
Canada Condemns ‘Barbaric’ Attack, Announces Fresh Aid
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also strongly condemned the strike, calling it a clear example of “barbarism.” During a meeting with President Zelensky, Carney said that achieving lasting peace would require genuine willingness from Russia, not just conditions set by Ukraine.
Reaffirming Canada’s support, Carney announced fresh economic assistance worth CAN$2.5 billion (approximately US$1.82 billion) for Ukraine. He said the funding would help ease international financing pressures and support early reconstruction efforts as the war continues.
Germany, EU, NATO Reiterate United Support
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said President Zelensky continues to receive full backing from European leaders and Canada. His remarks came ahead of expected discussions with US President Donald Trump on the prolonged conflict.
Merz added that NATO and the European Union are coordinating closely with the United States to explore pathways toward a sustainable peace in Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in a social media post, reiterated the EU’s position, stressing that any peace process must protect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“We welcome all efforts that lead to our shared goal — a just and lasting peace that safeguards Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity,” she said.
As the conflict nears its fourth year, the latest escalation underscores the deep challenges facing diplomatic efforts and the continued human and infrastructural toll on Ukraine.
