Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine's southern and central regions, authorities reported, as Kyiv retaliated by targeting Russian oil refineries.
At least one woman was killed in Zaporizhzhia and 28 people were injured, including three children, according to local officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated Moscow deployed over 500 drones and 45 missiles, striking 14 regions across the country. Following the assault, Russia's defense ministry claimed all targets of the strike have been achieved and designated objects have been hit.
The attacks arrive amidst ongoing international peace negotiations, weeks after a previous large-scale aerial assault led to the deaths of at least 23 people.
In Dnipropetrovsk, Governor Serhiy Lysak warned about a massive attack and urged citizens to seek shelter. This marks the second consecutive night the region has been targeted.
Railway infrastructure was damaged near Kyiv, but the central and southeastern parts of Ukraine bore the brunt of the latest strikes. Emergency services are actively responding to fires in Zaporizhzhia, with reports of explosions resonating in the Dnipro and Pavlohrad regions.
In retaliation, Ukraine's military successfully targeted Russian oil refineries in Krasnodar and Syzran overnight, noting significant explosions and fires at these facilities.
Russian officials acknowledged the damage at the Krasnodar refinery but reported no casualties. They also claimed to have intercepted 20 Ukrainian drones overnight, including 18 over Crimea.
Zelensky emphasized that the recent attacks underscore Russia's disregard for words and stated that sanctions are the only effective response. The EU's foreign affairs ministers are convening in Denmark, discussing new proposals aimed at limiting Russia's military capabilities in light of continued aggression.
In this critical time, the international community remains engaged in discussions while enduring high stakes amid the conflict.
