Explosions Rock Kyiv, Poltava as Russia Launches Ballistic Missile Attack

Kyiv came under missile attack in the early hours of Thursday, after Ukrainian officials warned of a Russian ballistic missile threat from the north.

Ukraine’s Air Force initially issued an alert over the possible use of ballistic weapons, warning of a “ballistic threat from the north.” Authorities urged residents in affected regions to move immediately to shelters and remain there until the all-clear was announced.

The missile threat was briefly lifted at 12:58 a.m., but at 1:22 a.m. the military again declared a missile danger. Shortly afterward, the Air Force reported several ballistic missiles heading toward the capital and Poltava region.

A series of powerful explosions was heard in Kyiv at around 1:24 a.m. Explosions were also reported in Poltava. 

There were no immediate reports of casualties or damage.