At least 17 people were killed and more than 40 wounded in Kyiv and its surrounding region following an overnight barrage of ballistic missile and drone strikes launched by Russia on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, local authorities reported.

Kyiv was unable to intercept any of the missiles during the attack, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to emphasize the need for more US-made Patriot interceptors to protect civilians. "Ballistic interceptors are what could have saved the lives of those killed today," Zelenskyy said while announcing the death toll.

The Ukrainian capital has faced a significant increase in missile attacks in recent months, with Russia firing salvos of difficult-to-intercept ballistic missiles in rapid succession, causing widespread damage and civilian casualties.

Later on Wednesday, Zelenskyy revealed he had been in discussions with NATO chief Mark Rutte about acquiring additional interceptor missiles. He stressed the importance of overcoming bureaucratic delays to make necessary political decisions swiftly.

Despite shooting down 98 of the 115 drones fired by Russia overnight, Ukraine's air force was unable to intercept any ballistic missiles, according to preliminary statistics. Kyiv resident Natalia Reutska described the aftermath of the attack to AFP, highlighting the ongoing threat to civilians.

The United Nations has reported an increase in civilian deaths throughout 2026 as the conflict, now in its fourth and a half year, continues without a peace agreement.

Firefighters were seen working at sites hit by the missile strikes in the Kyiv region, underscoring the severity of the attacks.

President Zelenskyy also noted, "Literally every day, people's lives here in Ukraine depend on the resolve of our partners in Europe and the United States."

Sources