Russian drone crashes into Kyiv security headquarters
A Russian drone struck the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) headquarters during an afternoon strike in central Kyiv, senior Ukrainian officials confirmed. The unmanned aerial vehicle targeted a room used by security chief Oleksandr Poklad.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said he has since spoken to Poklad to organise an "appropriate, tangible response," hinting at a counter-strategy. The drone was aimed directly at the office of the SBU head, illustrating Russia’s growing precision and potentially raising the threat level before U.S. mediators meet this weekend.
Emergency services were dispatched immediately: firefighters tackled smoke and gas leaks while medical staff attended five injured people, including an off‑site café patron. The building’s smoke plume and shattered windows are visible in images shared widely on social media.
Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha described the attack as a “major escalation that demands resolute responses” and criticised Moscow’s “true rejection of diplomacy.” U.N. officials urge restraint amid heightened risks.
The Russian defence ministry also reported striking a cargo vessel in the Ukrainian port of Chornomorsk and a tanker near Odesa on the same day, signalling a broader campaign. Although the strike type remains unclear, jet‑powered drones are increasingly employed, making them harder to intercept.
U.S. mediators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner plan visits to Moscow and Kyiv this weekend, hoping to revitalize peace talks. Their outreach occurs as the conflict escalates, underscoring the urgency of a diplomatic solution.
Firefighters work to put out fires in the building following the Russian drone strike.
