In a dramatic escalation of hostilities, Russia has executed a substantial overnight attack on southern and central Ukraine, authorities reported. Ukrainian officials confirm that over 500 drones and 45 missiles were launched, striking 14 regions and resulting in one confirmed death and 28 injuries, including three children, in Zaporizhzhia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized Russia's actions, stating that the strikes revealed Moscow's blatant disregard for diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving peace. Following the assault, Russia's defense ministry asserted that all targets had been successfully hit, further heightening tensions in the region.
The attacks in Ukraine come just days after the country experienced its second largest aerial bombardment of the entire conflict, marking a grim counterpoint to ongoing international negotiations seeking a resolution to the war. Ukrainian military officials report significant damage from explosions and fires, particularly throughout central and southeastern areas.
In retaliation, Ukraine targeted Russian oil refineries in Krasnodar and Syzran, claiming numerous explosions occurred at the sites. The ongoing military engagement, paired with growing humanitarian concerns amidst increasing casualties, underscores the dire state of affairs in the conflict, which has yet to show signs of resolution.
In kyiv, emergency services battled numerous fires resulting from the attacks, while the situation remains precarious with Russian forces attempting to solidify their presence in regions like Dnipropetrovsk.
As diplomatic efforts continue to stall, both sides reinforce their positions, with Ukraine calling on international allies, particularly the US and European nations, to impose stricter sanctions on Russia to compel a shift in strategy. European foreign ministers are gathering to address the situation and discuss potential sanctions aimed at limiting Russia's military capabilities.
