Missile Barrage: Kyiv Recovers Amid Explosions on School's First Day

Kyiv experienced loud explosions early Monday as Russia launched missiles, causing fires and damage to homes and infrastructure. Ukraine's air force intercepted some missiles, but others caused injuries and destruction. The bombardment coincided with the start of the school year, making the day especially challenging for parents and children.

Loud explosions rocked Ukraine's capital Kyiv early on Monday as Russia launched a barrage of missiles, sparking fires and damaging homes and infrastructure, officials confirmed. Residents were jolted awake by successive bangs and the sound of air defence missiles intercepting targets.

The Ukrainian air force reported it destroyed 22 out of 35 missiles and 20 of 23 attack drones. Air raid alerts lasted nearly two hours before skies were cleared at 6:30 a.m. (0330 GMT). Neighboring NATO member Poland activated aircraft to secure its airspace during the attacks, which coincided with the first day of school for many children.

The attack injured three people and damaged a boiler house and metro station entrance in Kyiv. Emergency services responded swiftly across multiple districts, including Svyatoshynksyi, where universities and schools are concentrated. This bombardment follows Russia's largest air attack on Ukraine in 2022, aimed primarily at disrupting energy facilities.

(With inputs from agencies.)