Russian Assault Hits Kyiv Ahead of NATO Talks
In the early hours of Monday, July 21, Russia carried out one of its largest recent aerial attacks on Kyiv, firing 426 drones — mostly Shahed and decoy drones — and 24 missiles. Ukraine’s air force said it intercepted 200 drones, with another 203 jammed or lost.
The attack killed at least two people and injured 15, including a child. Fires broke out at a kindergarten, supermarket, and warehouse, and a drone struck a subway station where civilians had sought shelter.
The barrage came just hours before a NATO-led virtual meeting, chaired by U.K. and German defense chiefs, on U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan for NATO allies to provide more weapons to Ukraine.
NATO Allies Plan “50-Day Drive”
At the meeting, Ukraine’s new defense minister urged faster delivery of U.S.-made Patriot air-defense systems. Trump’s proposal involves European nations sending American weapons — from stockpiles or new purchases — to Ukraine through NATO.
Germany and Switzerland have offered to help supply Patriots, but officials noted that deployment could still take days or weeks. Meanwhile, NATO leaders are coordinating delivery of other munitions and artillery.
Trump has also issued Russia a 50-day deadline to agree to a ceasefire or face harsher sanctions.
Ukraine’s Retaliation and Peace Talks
Ukraine continues to strike back with long-range drones. Russia claimed it shot down 74 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 23 near Moscow.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv is proposing new peace talks this week, but no date has been set.
Summary of Key Events:
Ukraine and Russia continue drone strikes and signal readiness for more negotiations.
Russia launched over 400 drones and 24 missiles at Kyiv overnight; 2 killed, 15 injured.
Damage hit a subway station, kindergarten, supermarket, and homes.
NATO and Ukraine held high-level talks Monday on speeding weapons deliveries.
Trump’s plan includes Patriot missile systems and a 50-day deadline for Russia.
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