Russia launched dozens of ballistic missiles at Ukraine's capital on Wednesday, killing at least 17 people and striking warehouses belonging to major retailers, as Ukraine faces critical shortages in air defence systems.

Russia conducted a large-scale missile attack on Kyiv and surrounding regions on Wednesday, resulting in at least 17 deaths and over 40 injuries, according to Ukrainian officials. The strikes targeted warehouses and logistics centres of major retailers, with multiple explosions occurring throughout the night. This marks the latest in a series of escalated Russian air assaults on the capital, which has faced bombardment every three to four days in recent weeks.

Ukrainian air defences intercepted nearly 90 per cent of 115 drones launched during the attack but failed to stop any of the 24 ballistic missiles and four Zircon cruise missiles, the air force reported. The inability to defend against these weapons underscores a critical vulnerability: Ukraine lacks sufficient air defence missiles for its Patriot systems, the only weapons capable of intercepting ballistic missiles travelling at supersonic speeds. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Telegram that "ballistic missile interceptors could have saved the lives of those killed today," noting that deliveries of air defence missiles were three times smaller than in 2025.

The attack inflicted significant damage to Ukraine's civilian economy. Epicentr, the country's largest home improvement retailer, reported that two logistics facilities and a factory were destroyed within minutes. Food retailer Silpo confirmed at least six employee deaths and two distribution centres destroyed. Rozetka, a leading online retailer, sustained strikes from three ballistic missiles. The Kyiv regional military administration documented 13 damaged warehouses, a manufacturing facility, four private homes, and dozens of vehicles.

Russia's Defence Ministry claimed the strikes targeted seven logistics centres allegedly used to store or distribute dual-use goods and drone components. Meanwhile, Ukraine has responded by hitting Russian retailer Wildberries' logistics hub, continuing its counter-strikes. The Prime Minister announced an emergency government meeting with businesses to address operational continuity for logistics and trade companies. Ukraine has also pressed for additional PAC-3 interceptor missiles and is exploring domestic Patriot missile production with United States support.