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Russia escalates strikes on Ukraine
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Russia struck Ukraine's SBU headquarters in Kyiv, injuring at least seven.
The strikes signal escalating tit-for-tat air war far from front lines.
Background
Russia has escalated its aerial attacks on Ukraine, particularly on Kyiv, with continuous drone and missile strikes over recent weeks. The attacks target infrastructure and government buildings, causing civilian casualties and disrupting daily life. This escalation comes amid a frozen front line, with both sides using long-range weapons to inflict pain.
How it unfolded
- Sep 1, 2026Russian drone and missile barrage kills at least 12 in Kyiv and surrounding region; EU ministers meet to discuss air defense shortages.
- Sep 2, 2026Air raid alerts disrupt first day of school in Kyiv; attacks continue for sixth consecutive night.
- Sep 3, 2026Strikes near Moldova raise fears of escalation beyond Ukraine; Moldova reports violations of its airspace.
- Sep 4, 2026Russian drone strikes Ukraine's SBU headquarters in central Kyiv, injuring at least seven; heavy smoke rises.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha called the attack a 'major escalation that demands resolute responses' and said it shows Russia's rejection of diplomacy.
- Analysts
- Military expert Rob Lee said, 'It's a question of how much pain can Russia take compared to Ukraine - and Russia can take a lot of pain.'
- Public
- Kyiv resident Oleh said, 'I think people can get used to this. In the centre of Kyiv, and in the centre of Moscow. It will get worse, I believe this.'
Still unverified
It is not yet known which type of munition was used in the SBU attack; whether SBU members were among the injured is unconfirmed.