Russia Hits Ukraine Intelligence HQ In Dramatic Kyiv Strike
A Russian drone has struck Ukraine’s intelligence headquarters in central Kyiv, sending thick black smoke over the capital during a daylight attack.
The strike hit the headquarters of Ukraine’s Security Service, SBU, on Volodymyrska Street, directly opposite the historic St Sophia Cathedral.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the drone was deliberately directed at the building housing the intelligence service’s top official.
Zelenskyy said he had ordered the SBU to deliver an “appropriate, tangible response” following the attack.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, described the strike as a “major escalation” requiring a firm international response.
Security forces quickly sealed off surrounding streets, while armed officers, ambulances and emergency workers gathered around the damaged building.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said at least nine people were injured in the attack.
The strike was particularly significant because Russian attacks rarely reach government buildings in central Kyiv, especially during daylight hours.
A nearby café was also affected, with the blast shattering its windows and injuring one customer who was inside at the time.
Café staff and customers rushed underground after the explosion, fearing Russia could launch another strike against emergency responders.
Such “double-tap” attacks involve a second strike following the initial explosion, potentially targeting rescuers and other personnel at the scene.
The latest attack comes after more than a week of intensified Russian drone and missile strikes across Ukraine.
Ukraine is also facing shortages of US-made Patriot interceptors, which are crucial for defending against incoming missiles and drones.
Recent Russian attacks have increasingly involved jet-powered drones capable of reaching about 250mph, making them difficult for Ukrainian defences to intercept.
The SBU plays a central role in Ukraine’s covert operations against Russia, including last year’s Operation Spiderweb.
That operation targeted Russian military aircraft and destroyed equipment reportedly worth billions of pounds.
The latest strike could further intensify the confrontation between Moscow and Kyiv as both sides continue targeting critical infrastructure.
It also raises fresh concerns over Ukraine’s ability to protect important government facilities in the heart of its capital.
The attack occurred just two days before expected visits to Kyiv by US envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
The visits form part of US-led diplomatic efforts to end Russia’s invasion, which has now lasted more than four years.
