Russian forces launched a barrage of overnight airstrikes on Ukrainian cities, killing civilians and damaging critical infrastructure in what Kyiv officials described as one of the heaviest bombardments in weeks.
The strikes targeted energy facilities, transport hubs, and residential areas. Explosions lit up the skies over Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Odesa as air raid sirens blared across much of the country. Ukraine’s Air Force said it intercepted several drones and missiles, but others broke through, causing fires and casualties.
At least 15 people were confirmed dead, while dozens were injured, according to preliminary reports from Ukrainian emergency services. Power outages were reported in multiple regions after strikes hit energy grids.
Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed the attacks were in retaliation for recent Ukrainian operations near the Russian border. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the assault, accusing Moscow of “terrorizing civilians to break our spirit.”
Western governments also condemned the escalation. NATO officials reiterated their support for Ukraine and pledged additional air defense systems. The renewed violence underscores the ongoing volatility of the war, now in its third year.
