Russia Unleashes Record Air Assault on Kyiv Amid Trump’s Calls to Putin and Zelenskyy

In a harrowing overnight attack, Russia launched the largest aerial bombardment on Kyiv since the war began over three years ago. Missiles and drones rained down across Ukraine’s capital for nearly eight hours, striking residential neighborhoods, infrastructure, and public facilities, leaving at least one dead and over 20 injured.

The assault came just hours after former President Donald Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which Trump later described as making “no progress” toward ending the war. A follow-up call between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy underscored the urgency of the situation, with Zelenskyy describing their discussion as “important and useful.”

Panic in Kyiv as Missiles Shatter the Morning

As air raid sirens blared into the early morning of July 4, terrified residents of Kyiv rushed to underground metro stations for shelter. Local officials said the attack involved over 550 drones and 11 missiles, damaging apartment complexes, schools, warehouses, and rail lines.

“It was a harsh, sleepless night,” President Zelenskyy posted on social media. “This attack proves Russia has no desire to end its campaign of war and terror.”

Images from Kyiv showed the aftermath: firefighters battling blazes, shattered buildings, and residents—many elderly—fleeing the chaos. One residential area was leveled by direct strikes, with rescue crews seen digging through debris for survivors.

Russia Justifies Attack, U.S. Aid Paused

The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed the barrage was in retaliation for what it called “terrorist acts by the Kyiv regime.” Moscow has recently escalated its bombing campaign, even as ceasefire talks remain stalled.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration paused critical weapons shipments to Ukraine earlier this week, halting deliveries of missiles, ammunition, and air defense systems. Ukrainian officials warned this decision would severely weaken their defensive capabilities, especially against intensifying Russian attacks.

In a Telegram update following his call with Trump, Zelenskyy stressed the need for enhanced U.S. support:

“We discussed Russia’s air strikes and steps to bolster Ukraine’s air defense. President Trump was well-informed, and we agreed to increase cooperation, especially around drone and technological defenses.”

A Tale of Two Calls: Trump’s Talks with Putin and Zelenskyy

President Trump’s conversation with Zelenskyy came one day after his phone call with President Putin, which Trump called “deeply disappointing.”

“I didn’t make any progress with him today at all,” Trump said. “I’m not happy about that.”

According to Kremlin foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov, Putin reportedly told Trump that Russia would not retreat from its objectives in Ukraine and that the war would persist until what he called the “root causes” of the conflict were addressed.

While Putin did not elaborate, he has previously demanded that Ukraine cede certain territories and vow not to join military alliances such as NATO.

Kyiv Calls for Direct Action with U.S.

Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine is seeking direct partnerships with the United States, particularly in advancing military technologies.

“We are ready for joint projects with America,” Zelenskyy said, “especially in the area of drone development and other technologies essential to our defense.”

Though symbolic support remains strong, Zelenskyy’s government is calling for concrete commitments, especially in light of the paused weapon deliveries.

Uncertain Future Amid Rising Tensions

As Ukraine absorbs the impact of this historic aerial onslaught and continues to defend its sovereignty, questions remain about the next phase of U.S. involvement. With diplomatic channels seemingly stalled and military support in limbo, Ukraine faces a perilous road ahead, caught between rising Russian aggression and evolving U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration.