More Kyiv strikes; China’s Communist Party congress; Georgia early voting

On the same day more suicide drones struck Kyiv, day two of China’s Communist Party congress got underway as early voting was set to begin in Georgia. These stories highlight the Daily Rundown for Monday, Oct. 17, 2022.

Kyiv drone strikes – An unknown numbers of explosive-laden suicide drones struck Ukraine’s capital as residents were preparing to start their weeks Monday. Some of the drones were Iranian-made Shaheds. At least 13 drones were shot down as they flew in from the south, according to Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat.

Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said the city’s central Shevchenko district was among the areas hit, with apartment blocks damaged and a non-residential building on fire. There was no immediate word of casualties.

The Kyiv drone strikes came as NATO began its long-planned annual nuclear exercises in northwestern Europe. Fourteen of NATO’s 30 member countries were due to take part in the exercises, which the military alliance said would involve around 60 aircraft, including fighter jets and surveillance and refueling planes.

China’s Communist Party congress – The weeklong Communist Party congress got underway in China Sunday. The party is expected to reappoint leader Xi Jinping for a third five-year term, paving the way to make him one of the most powerful leaders in China’s modern history.

“The wheels of history are rolling on towards China’s reunification and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” Xi said when discussing Hong Kong and Taiwan in a speech Sunday. “Complete reunification of our motherland must be realized and can without doubt be realized.”

Georgia early voting begins – One of the first big moments of the 2022 midterm election season was set for Monday with early voting beginning in Georgia. The state is host to two key races, one for governor and the other for senator.

The gubernatorial race is between Republican incumbent Brian Kemp and Democratic challenger Stacey Abrams. The two were set to take part in the first of two scheduled debates Monday. The Senate race is between Democratic incumbent Raphael Warnock and Republican challenger Herschel Walker.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.