Key facts
- Kyiv was attacked by Russian ballistic missiles early on September 24, 2026.
- Air defenses were engaged during the attack.
- Explosions were heard in the city center around 1 a.m. local time.
- Ukraine's Air Force issued warnings about incoming ballistic missiles.
- Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported emergency crews were dispatched to three districts.
Kyiv experienced explosions from ballistic missiles early on Thursday, September 24, 2026, as air defense systems engaged the incoming weapons. Mayor Vitali Klitschko announced that the capital was under attack and urged residents to remain in shelters. Reuters witnesses reported hearing several explosions after 1 a.m. local time. Unofficial Telegram channels showed what appeared to be a fire lighting up the horizon. Russian forces had maintained attacks on the city throughout Wednesday, resulting in two fatalities and 45 injuries, according to Klitschko. Previous Russian drone strikes on September 23 killed two people and injured 43, damaging railway infrastructure, residential buildings, and a historic market. On September 22, jet-powered drones also struck Kyiv, injuring at least eight people across several districts.