Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a stark call for international allies to pursue regime change in Russia, following a devastating overnight assault on Kyiv that killed seven civilians, including a six-year-old child. The missile and drone attack, one of the most intense in recent weeks, targeted residential zones in western Kyiv, reducing part of a nine-storey building to rubble.
The Ukrainian Air Force said Russia launched over 300 drones and eight cruise missiles in the overnight barrage, with Kyiv being the primary target. Emergency crews spent hours sifting through wreckage, while photos and footage from the scene showed charred debris and residents’ belongings scattered across the ruins.
“Seven lives of Kyiv residents were taken by the Russians in their night attack,” said Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv’s military administration. The youngest victim, a boy, reportedly died in an ambulance.
Zelensky Warns of Continued Threat Without Regime Change
Speaking at a virtual event marking 50 years since the Helsinki Accords, Zelensky emphasized that removing Vladimir Putin’s regime was essential to ensure long-term peace in the region. “If the world doesn’t aim to change the regime in Russia, that means even after the war ends, Moscow will still try to destabilize neighboring countries,” he said.
The warning came amid heightened tensions, as Russia continues to escalate its battlefield strategy despite mounting pressure from the West.
Russia Claims Key Victory in Eastern Ukraine
Moscow, meanwhile, announced the capture of Chasiv Yar, a strategic town in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region. If confirmed, it marks a significant gain for Russian forces that have been grinding forward in a drawn-out offensive. The Ukrainian military, however, denied the claim, calling it “lies” and insisting Chasiv Yar remains contested.
Control of the town could offer Russia a pathway to Kramatorsk and Sloviansk—major logistical hubs and civilian population centers in eastern Ukraine.
Calls for International Sanctions Intensify
In response to the deadly attack, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga called for harsher sanctions. “President Trump has been generous and patient with Putin. It’s time to make him feel the pain of his choices,” he said.
While Russia continues to deny targeting civilians, international observers are urging stronger global action to force Moscow to end its invasion.
