Zelenskyy Cuts Dublin Visit Short Over Threat of Russian Strike Tonight
Updated
Updated · POLITICO Europe · Jul 1
Zelenskyy Cuts Dublin Visit Short Over Threat of Russian Strike Tonight
2 articles · Updated · POLITICO Europe · Jul 1
Summary
Zelenskyy left Dublin immediately on Wednesday after saying intelligence pointed to a large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine later that night.
At a press conference with Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin, he said the Kremlin had been preparing the massive strike for some time and urged Ukrainians to obey air raid alerts.
The abrupt departure cut short his attendance at the first day of Ireland's presidency of the Council of the European Union.
The warning signals a fresh escalation risk as Kyiv braces for what Zelenskyy described as an imminent major assault.
With its ground forces failing, are Russia's massive air strikes a show of strength or desperation?
As Ukraine gains ground, could a US-brokered peace deal unexpectedly hand victory to Russia?
Can Ukraine's AI drones and electronic warfare defeat Russian missiles when traditional air defenses are scarce?
Kyiv Under Siege: July 2, 2026 Russian Missile and Drone Onslaught Sparks Major Civilian Crisis and International Alarm
Overview
On July 1, 2026, President Zelenskyy urgently warned of an imminent large-scale Russian attack, prompting immediate precautionary measures across Ukraine, such as the closure of WOG gas stations in Kyiv and nearby regions to protect staff and customers. That night, a massive Russian missile and drone strike hit, confirming the warning. Ukrainian air defense forces managed to intercept many threats, destroying dozens of missiles and hundreds of drones. Despite these efforts, the widespread attack caused significant damage and injuries in Kyiv and surrounding areas, highlighting the escalating intensity of the conflict and the ongoing risks faced by civilians.