Russia's escalating attacks turn Kyiv into a front-line city

Russia has intensified attacks on Kyiv, transforming the Ukrainian capital into a front-line city where residents face daily danger from drones and missiles. The escalating strikes have killed 140 people in the first eight months of 2026, nearing the total for all of 2025. With insufficient shelters for the city's 4 million residents, subway stations now serve as makeshift dormitories each night, where families with children and pets seek safety. Attacks have targeted residential buildings and schools, forcing parents to balance work with keeping children safe during unpredictable air-raid alarms. Strikes on infrastructure have caused supermarket shortages and emergency power outages, raising concerns about winter heating and electricity supplies. Despite the danger, 72% of Kyiv residents say they are prepared to endure the war as long as necessary, according to a September survey.