Wed Jan 01 11:50:33 UTC 2025: ## Kyiv Hit by Deadly Russian Drone Attack on New Year’s Day
**Kyiv, Ukraine** – A New Year’s Day drone attack on the center of Kyiv has killed two people and injured six more, sparking outrage in Ukraine and further escalating tensions in the ongoing conflict with Russia. The attack, which targeted the Pechersky district – home to the presidential palace and government buildings – occurred in the early hours of January 1st, 2025, just hours after President Volodymyr Zelensky delivered a New Year’s address pledging to end the war within the year.
Ukrainian authorities reported that 111 Russian drones were launched overnight, with 109 successfully intercepted or disabled by air defenses. However, falling debris from the intercepted drones caused damage to apartment buildings and the National Bank of Ukraine’s city center branch. Emergency services rescued four people from the rubble.
AFP journalists on the ground confirmed hearing multiple powerful explosions. Ukrainian officials condemned the attack, with President Zelensky stating on Telegram that “Even on New Year’s night, Russia only cares about hurting Ukraine.”
The attack comes amid intensified aerial assaults from both sides in recent months, fueled by the upcoming inauguration of US President-elect Donald Trump in January. Trump’s claims of a swift peace deal have raised concerns in Kyiv about potential concessions to Russia. This latest strike represents a significant escalation, with Russia repeatedly threatening to target Kyiv’s city center in response to Ukrainian use of US-supplied weapons.
First Piper 