Powerful explosions reported in Kyiv as air defenses activated

KYIV, Ukraine — A series of powerful explosions struck Ukraine's capital Kyiv on Friday, with thick smoke rising over parts of the city, local officials and witnesses said. Air defense systems were placed on alert in response to a possible air attack, though no official statement on the cause of the blasts had been issued by midday. Emergency services were mobilized across affected districts, and residents were urged to move to shelters and follow safety precautions. Videos circulated on social media showed columns of smoke rising from the city skyline, though the exact locations and extent of damage remained unclear. No immediate reports of casualties or responsibility for the blasts were available. Ukrainian authorities have not yet confirmed whether the explosions were caused by missile strikes, drone attacks or other ordnance. Further details were awaited from official channels.