Images of the Russian attack on the Ukrainian intelligence headquarters in Kyiv

Ukraine is preparing to launch a counter-attack after a Russian drone struck the headquarters of the SBU, the Ukrainian security service, in the heart of Kyiv. The attack left at least twelve people injured, seven of whom have been hospitalised. The drone struck the building, located on Volodymyrska Street opposite St Sophia’s Cathedral, damaging the façade. This is the first known Russian attack on the SBU headquarters in the capital.

In a message on his Telegram profile, Volodymyr Zelensky reassured the public about the condition of Oleksandr Poklad, the acting head of the security service. The drone was in fact heading straight for his office. Poklad has been tasked by the president with preparing an ‘appropriate and decisive’ response and, if possible, a ‘symmetrical’ one. Shortly afterwards, Zelensky announced that the geographical area for the retaliatory strike had already been identified and that the timing of the attack would be chosen “to achieve the maximum effect”.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also spoke out, describing the attack as a "serious escalation" and calling on international partners to increase pressure on Moscow.

The raid comes on the ninth consecutive day of Russian attacks on Kyiv, which has been subjected to almost daily Shahed drone strikes in recent weeks. Meanwhile, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s envoys, are on their way to Moscow and are due to arrive in Kyiv on Sunday 6 September. Ukraine has announced that it will suspend air strikes against Russia during the American mission to ensure the safety of the negotiators and has asked Moscow to do the same. Russia, at least so far, has not publicly assured that it will halt the raids during the visit.

Zelenskyy also briefed NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on the situation. The two discussed the Russian attacks, Ukraine’s defence needs and the forthcoming talks with US envoys. Rutte reiterated his commitment to strengthening military support for Kyiv, starting with funding for the PURL programme and the supply of the missiles required for the Patriot systems.