Explosions shook Kyiv on Wednesday morning as Russia launched its first missile strike on the Ukrainian capital since August, escalating tensions and raising concerns over the city’s fragile energy infrastructure as winter sets in. Authorities warned residents to seek shelter, with the scale of damage and any casualties yet to be confirmed.

According to Ukraine’s military, the assault involved missiles launched by Russian strategic bombers as well as ballistic missiles. Andriy Yermak, head of the president’s office, stated on Telegram, “Putin is launching a missile attack on Kyiv right now.” The missile strike followed a reported drone assault that triggered air raid alerts overnight, marking a continuation of near-nightly aerial attacks that have left Kyiv residents on edge.

Vitali Klitschko, Kyiv’s mayor, reported a drone was still active over central Kyiv in the morning, adding to the distress of locals already exhausted by frequent alerts and disruptions. “Explosions in the city. Air defense forces are working. Stay in shelters!” urged Kyiv’s city administration on Telegram as defensive measures were underway.

Since September, Kyiv residents have braced for a potential large-scale missile attack that could target the capital’s already vulnerable energy grid. The potential impact on energy infrastructure has led to concerns over extended blackouts during the cold months ahead, when heating and electricity demands are at their peak.

In the city’s central metro station, around 100 people sought refuge, including elderly residents and children, who rested on mats and fold-out chairs. Mykyta, a young college student sheltering in the station with his dog, expressed frustration: “The mornings are totally ruined. I started college in September, and every morning has been ruined by the bloody Russians. I cannot sleep, cannot think, and drink energy drinks all the time.”

Wednesday’s missile attack marks the first major assault on Kyiv since August 26, when Russia launched a widespread attack involving over 200 drones and missiles across Ukraine. As winter approaches, Kyiv residents and officials remain vigilant amid the constant threat of aerial strikes, worried about the growing strain on the capital’s resilience and its energy supplies.