Explosions were reported this morning in central Kyiv as Ukrainian authorities described a rare daytime air attack attributed to Russia. Journalists on the scene said several drones and at least two missiles were intercepted by air defenses. Mayor Vitali Klitschko wrote on Telegram that remains of a drone fell in the city center but did not cause casualties, and he urged people to stay in shelters.
What happened in the city
Air defenses activated across three districts, with notable activity in the Obolon area. Officials said fragments landed close to the Independence Monument in Maidan Square, in the heart of Kyiv. Ukrainian MP Maria Mezentseva posted a video of the site showing debris near the monument.
What Moscow said
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told a press conference that, because Kyiv is not ready for a diplomatic settlement, Russia will continue to pursue the objectives of its so called special military operation on the ground. He repeated that Russia has, in his words, expressed willingness to negotiate, but that the Ukrainian government is not ready.
A new type of drone, and AI concerns
Ukrainian and media reports indicate the drone that crashed in Maidan may be a Lancet kamikaze model. Preliminary analysis of recovered wreckage reportedly shows the characteristic X-shaped tail and a pusher propeller typical of that drone. Some sources say it is highly likely the Lancet used onboard artificial intelligence for navigation.
Sean Penn in Kyiv
Oscar-winning actor Sean Penn is in Ukraine on what officials describe as a personal visit to show support. A senior Ukrainian official told AFP that Penn, who recently received an award for "Una battaglia dopo l'altra" while not attending the ceremony, was in the country by choice and planned meetings that could include President Volodymyr Zelensky. Penn co-directed a 2023 documentary about Zelensky.
Diplomacy and upcoming meetings
President Zelensky will travel to Madrid where Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will receive him at the Moncloa Palace on Wednesday morning. The leaders are expected to sign several agreements ahead of the European Council meeting in Brussels on March 19. Spain plans to press for the release of a promised 90 billion euro credit from the EU, currently blocked by Hungary, and to reiterate Spanish support for Ukraine for as long as needed. Madrid will also voice concerns about the temporary US decision to ease some sanctions on Russian oil, according to government sources. This will be Zelensky's fourth visit to Spain since the start of the invasion.
No casualties were reported from the fragments that fell in the city center. Local authorities continue to call on residents to remain in shelters while air defenses are active.
