On June 2, 2026, Russia launched an attack on Ukraine using 656 drones and 73 missiles, leading to the deaths of at least 13 individuals and injuring over 100, including a child. The attack targeted cities including Dnipro, Kharkiv, and Kyiv, with Ukrainian officials alleging that Russian forces aimed at civilian infrastructure.
Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported that nine people died in Dnipro, including a child, and confirmed that four fatalities occurred in Kyiv, where more than 60 residents sought medical assistance for injuries, including shrapnel wounds sustained by a three-year-old.
Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's Minister of Foreign Affairs, characterized the attack on civilians as indicative of Russia's losses on the battlefield and labeled Russian President Vladimir Putin a war criminal. He called for increased support from Ukraine's allies, including sanctions and military aid.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the need for enhanced missile defense systems to protect against future attacks, noting that over 500 personnel from the State Emergency Service were involved in responding to the aftermath of the assault. He emphasized the necessity for Europe to establish its own anti-ballistic defense systems to mitigate such threats in the future.