Russia has carried out a massive overnight attack on 14 regions of Ukraine, authorities have reported, as Kyiv struck back by targeting Russian oil refineries. One fatality has been confirmed in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, along with 30 injuries, including children, according to local officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia launched nearly 540 drones and 45 missiles, calling for tougher sanctions against Moscow. Following the strikes, Russia's defense ministry claimed that all intended targets were struck; however, these claims remain unverified.
The latest assault coincides with ongoing international efforts to facilitate a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, and comes only days after Kyiv experienced one of the heaviest aerial attacks of the war, resulting in at least 25 deaths.
Officials in the Dnipropetrovsk region reported several strikes on infrastructure following a significant drone and missile attack overnight. The regional capital, Dnipro, witnessed widespread destruction, with residential buildings and shopping centers suffering damage. Fortunately, no casualties were reported immediately following these strikes.
In a notable counteroffensive, Ukraine's military reported drone attacks on oil refineries in Krasnodar and Syzran, both facilities previously targeted. Ukrainian forces claimed numerous explosions and fires occurred at the Krasnodar facility, which produces three million tons of petroleum products per year.
On the Russian side, authorities acknowledged damage from the drone strikes but reported no casualties. They claimed to have intercepted 20 Ukrainian drones during the attacks, emphasizing their military actions are ongoing.
European foreign ministers are gathering in Denmark to discuss the implications of these developments, with the potential of freezing approximately €210 billion of Russian assets on the agenda. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas noted that Russia's actions indicate a lack of desire for peace, while proposals for further sanctions aim to weaken Russia's military resources.
As the situation escalates, President Zelensky has emphasized the need for international support and action to deal with Russia's aggressive stance.
