eight people reported killed in Kyiv and Kharkiv region; maternity hospital among civilian sites damaged as diplomatic efforts continue
GTNS, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 , A fresh wave of Russian missile and drone attacks has struck parts of Ukraine, leaving at least eight people dead according to Ukrainian officials and causing damage to civilian locations in Kyiv and the Kharkiv region.
The attacks came as international diplomatic activity surrounding the war intensified at the United Nations in New York, creating a sharp contrast between efforts at the diplomatic table and continuing violence on the ground.
Kyiv hit by multiple waves
Ukraine’s capital came under repeated aerial attack during the overnight hours. Officials said two people were killed in Kyiv, while several others were injured.
A maternity hospital was among the civilian facilities damaged. More than 50 civilian sites, including residential buildings and other infrastructure, were reported damaged across the capital, according to Ukrainian officials cited by AP.
The attacks also affected other parts of Ukraine, including Odesa and several regions where authorities reported damage and casualties.
Heavy attack reported over Kharkiv region
In northeastern Ukraine, a strike on a farm in the Kharkiv region killed agricultural workers and injured others, according to Ukrainian officials.
Reports on the precise casualty count in the Kharkiv incident varied during the day, but international agencies reported six deaths there, contributing to a nationwide toll of at least eight in the initial reports.
Large-scale aerial barrage
Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia launched 282 drones, along with ballistic and hypersonic missiles, during the overnight assault.
Russian authorities said their military targeted Ukrainian defence-related, logistical and telecommunications facilities. Ukrainian authorities, meanwhile, reported extensive damage to civilian infrastructure.
Diplomatic efforts continue
The latest strikes occurred shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the United Nations General Assembly.
Zelenskyy has urged stronger international pressure on Moscow and called for additional measures to reduce Russia’s ability to finance the war. At the same time, US officials have been holding discussions with both Russian and Ukrainian representatives as Washington explores diplomatic avenues.
Wider regional concern
The impact of the latest attacks has extended beyond Ukraine’s borders. Poland said it deployed military aircraft to protect its airspace during the Russian strikes, while Czech aircraft were also involved in the defensive response.
The continued attacks are also raising concerns over food and energy security. Ukraine remains an important agricultural exporter, particularly of grain, while attacks on ports and infrastructure can affect deliveries through the Black Sea.
War and diplomacy move in opposite directions
Thursday’s developments once again put the central challenge of the Ukraine conflict into focus: diplomatic contacts are continuing, but military operations remain intense.
With world leaders gathered at the UN and discussions over a possible path towards de-escalation continuing, the latest strikes underline how far the conflict remains from a stable settlement.
GTNS | WORLD DESK