Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine's southern and central regions, authorities reported. The evening assault resulted in at least one death and 28 injuries, including three children, in Zaporizhzhia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia used over 500 drones and 45 missiles, hitting 14 regions across the country.
Following the attacks, Russia's defense ministry claimed that all targets of the strike have been achieved and that designated objects were hit. This escalation comes amid ongoing international efforts to broker peace. Just days earlier, Ukraine endured its second largest aerial attack of the war.
In Dnipropetrovsk, local officials warned of a massive attack, urging residents to seek shelter as military actions intensified.
Central and southeastern parts of Ukraine suffered extensive damage from the strikes. Reports also indicated that Ukrainian forces targeted Russian oil refineries in Krasnodar and Syzran, claiming significant explosions at the facilities.
The reported drone strikes led to damage at one oil facility and caused a fire, though Russian authorities stated there were no casualties. In retaliation, the Russian military claimed to have intercepted 20 Ukrainian drones, including 18 over Crimea.
As military actions ramp up, Zelensky emphasized the necessity of sanctions against Russia. He called for decisive action from global powers to support Ukraine's defense, amid discussions among European foreign ministers about potentially freezing €210 billion worth of Russian assets.
