Air targets were detected in the sky over the Kyiv Region. The alert was initially announced only in the region, without the capital, but later it spread to Kyiv as well.
The objects were reported on Telegram by the Kyiv Regional Military Administration.
"Air targets were detected in the sky of Kyiv Region. As a result, air defence is operating. Stay calm and go to shelters!" the statement said.
Update. Air Force spokesman Yuriy Ihnat explains that the air alert is caused by balloons. The enemy is launching them to distract air defence, he explained during the telethon.
Update 20:11. The Kyiv City Military Administration reports that six balloons were shot down in the sky over the capital.
"According to the information that is being clarified, these were balloons that move in space under the influence of the wind. These objects could have been carrying angular reflectors and certain reconnaissance equipment. All of them were targeted by air defence systems. Most of these probes were shot down. The purpose of launching the balloons may have been to detect and deplete our air defence. The final determination of the type and characteristics of the aircraft and their equipment will be made after a detailed study and analysis of the remains of the downed objects," the administration said.
Yesterday, the Russians launched into Ukraine balloons with reflective elements. They probably did this to deplete the air defence system.