Fri Jul 04 07:06:33 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Kyiv experienced its largest aerial attack since the start of the Russia-Ukraine war overnight into Friday, July 4th, 2025. Russia launched a massive wave of 550 drones and missiles, primarily targeting Kyiv. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted a significant portion, but some strikes hit residential buildings and infrastructure, causing widespread damage and injuring 23 people. The attack occurred shortly after President Trump held a call with President Putin and announced a pause on some weapons shipments to Ukraine, including essential air defense systems. This marks the second major aerial assault in less than a week.

**News Article:**

**Kyiv Hit by Largest Aerial Assault Since Start of War; Weapons Shipment Pause Raises Concerns**

**KYIV, UKRAINE – July 4, 2025** – Kyiv was rocked by a massive wave of Russian drone and missile attacks overnight, marking the largest aerial assault on the city since the beginning of the war. Ukrainian officials reported that Russia launched 550 drones and missiles, targeting the capital with devastating force.

The Ukrainian Air Force stated that the majority of the weaponry used in the assault were Shahed drones, but the attack also included 11 missiles. Explosions and intense machine gun fire echoed throughout the city as Ukrainian forces attempted to intercept the incoming barrage.

At least 23 people were injured in the attack, with 14 hospitalized, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Damage was reported across multiple districts of the capital, with residential buildings, a warehouse, a garage complex, and rail infrastructure all sustaining hits. Emergency services reported damage in at least five of the capital’s ten districts.

Ukrainian air defenses managed to shoot down 270 targets, including two cruise missiles. However, the attack comes on the heels of President Donald Trump’s announcement to pause some shipments of weapons to Ukraine, sparking concern about the nation’s ability to defend itself. The paused shipments include Patriot missiles, AIM-7 Sparrow air-to-air missiles, and shorter-range Stinger missiles, all crucial for countering aerial attacks.

This latest assault follows a similar large-scale attack less than a week ago, when Russia fired 537 drones and 60 missiles at Ukraine. The escalation in aerial attacks raises serious questions about the future of the conflict and Ukraine’s ability to withstand ongoing Russian aggression. The United Nations and other international organizations have condemned the attacks, calling for an immediate ceasefire and a renewed commitment to diplomatic solutions.

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