At least nine people were killed as Russia and Ukraine exchanged fresh waves of drone and missile attacks, marking another escalation in the more than four-year-long war. The overnight strikes targeted cities and infrastructure in both countries, causing casualties and widespread damage.
Ukrainian officials said Russian missile and drone attacks killed civilians and injured dozens in several regions, including Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Sumy. Homes, industrial facilities, and civilian infrastructure were damaged, while emergency crews continued rescue operations. Ukrainian authorities again appealed to Western allies for additional air defence systems, warning that shortages of Patriot missile interceptors are leaving cities increasingly vulnerable to ballistic missile attacks.
Russia, meanwhile, reported that Ukrainian drones targeted several regions, including areas near the Sea of Azov, disrupting shipping and damaging infrastructure. Russian officials also claimed their air defence systems intercepted many of the incoming drones, though some attacks caused casualties and property damage.
The latest exchange comes despite continued diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities. Both Moscow and Kyiv have intensified long-range strikes in recent weeks, with Russia increasing missile attacks on Ukrainian cities while Ukraine expands drone operations against Russian military and energy infrastructure. Analysts warn that the renewed escalation could further complicate any prospects for a negotiated settlement to the conflict.