Russian drone strike hits Ukraine security service headquarters in Kyiv

Kyiv, Ukraine. A Russian drone struck the headquarters of Ukraine’s SBU security service on Friday, injuring at least seven people, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and the city’s mayor said.

Kyiv, Ukraine. Zelenskiy said he had ordered a “tangible response” after the strike, as Russia continued drone attacks on the capital for a 10th consecutive day.

Strike on security service headquarters

Heavy black smoke rose over central Kyiv after the attack, which damaged the building housing the office of the head of the Security Service of Ukraine, known as the SBU.

“The drone was aimed directly at the office of the Head of the Security Service in that building,” Zelenskiy said on Telegram.

It was not immediately clear whether any SBU personnel were among those injured.

Response promised

Zelenskiy said he had instructed officials to prepare an “appropriate, tangible response” against Russia, where possible mirroring the strike once preparations were complete.

The SBU plays a central role in Ukraine’s war effort, carrying out long-range strikes targeting Russia’s military capabilities and energy infrastructure.

Damage in historic city centre

Emergency services and ambulances were deployed to the historic part of Kyiv near Saint Sophia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The owner of Zavertailo bakery said on Telegram that its building opposite the SBU headquarters had also been destroyed.

A woman at the scene said she had gone out to buy cigarettes when the explosion occurred.

Continuing attacks on Kyiv

Ukrainian government buildings have rarely been damaged by drone and missile attacks during more than four-and-a-half years of war with Russia.

Kyiv has been under continuous Russian drone attack for 10 days. A university in the city centre was also hit on Wednesday.