Kyiv and Lviv came under attack on February 22, 2026, as Russia intensified its strikes across Ukraine, marking nearly four years since the full-scale invasion began. The attacks, which included missile strikes on Kyiv and explosions reported as a “terrorist act” in Lviv, underscore the ongoing challenges to Ukrainian infrastructure and civilian safety as the conflict continues with no clear end in sight.
Reports indicate that a police officer was killed near Lviv as a result of the attacks. Explosions were also reported in the city of Sumy. These strikes come ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022, a conflict that began following Russia’s annexation of Crimea and initial incursions into the Donbas region.
The situation in Ukraine remains dire, with citizens facing a particularly difficult winter. According to reports, survival has become a daily struggle as Ukrainians contend with freezing temperatures and continued Russian strikes. The ongoing conflict has created a challenging environment for millions and the latest attacks highlight the persistent threat to their safety and well-being.
The attacks on Kyiv occurred before the fourth anniversary of the Russian invasion, with missiles impacting the capital city. The development underscores the continued vulnerability of Ukraine’s major urban centers to Russian military action.
The Ukrainian president has repeatedly criticized Moscow’s approach to peace negotiations, dismissing them as delaying tactics. He stated, “I don’t need historical shit to end this war and move to diplomacy. Because it’s just a delay tactic. I read no less history books than Putin.” This frustration was voiced after the latest round of talks in Geneva failed to yield a breakthrough.
Earlier reports indicated that, as Russian tanks approached Kyiv in February 2022, rumors circulated that President Zelenskyy had fled the country. He quickly dispelled these rumors by posting a video of himself standing in front of the presidential building with his advisors, declaring, “We are here.” A source close to the president revealed that Russian agents had attempted to rent apartments near the presidential office with the intention of eliminating him.
Zelenskyy, a former entertainer, reportedly responded to offers of evacuation from the United States by stating, “I need ammunition, not a ride.” He has survived approximately a dozen assassination attempts, as well as a corruption scandal that led to the removal of a close advisor and two government ministers.
