Russia launched its largest air barrage yet in Ukraine, targeting major cities including Kyiv, just hours after a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The attack, which included exploding drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, left the Ukrainian capital shrouded in smoke from fires. Residential buildings were damaged in five neighborhoods, with one person killed and 26 others injured.
The assault was part of a series of weekly large-scale missile and drone attacks, with Russia ramping up its efforts since June. The US has withheld some air defense missiles and other weapons promised to Ukraine, which has relied on US-made Patriots for defense against Russian ballistic missiles.
A call between Trump and Putin earlier in the day saw no “progress” made by either leader. Trump stated that he had not discussed Ukrainian concessions before a potential ceasefire. Russia claims it will only agree to a ceasefire if Ukraine makes concessions.
The attack was seen as an escalation of tensions, with Ukraine’s foreign minister calling out Putin’s actions as “regrettable”. China has also been implicated in the attacks, with investigators finding Chinese components in drone debris.
This is the latest development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/04/world/europe/ukraine-russia-war-putin-trump.html