In a major escalation, Russia carried out its deadliest attacks of the year, targeting Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities overnight. The strikes involved drones and missiles, resulting in at least 17 fatalities including a 12-year-old child and scores of injuries. Kyiv suffered significant damage, with fires in multiple locations and heavily damaged buildings, while rescue operations continue amid ongoing threat. Regional cities such as Odesa and Dnipro also experienced devastating attacks, with casualties and infrastructure damage reported.
Meanwhile, Russia responded with a large-scale strike on Ukraine’s energy and military infrastructure, claiming to target missile and drone production facilities. Ukraine’s military successfully downed numerous projectiles but still endured substantial losses, including damage to oil depots in Crimea and infrastructure in the port of Tuapse in Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned Russia's actions, emphasizing the need for continued international pressure and sanctions. Ukrainian officials and leaders called for urgent aid, with warnings that the toll may rise as rescue efforts persist amid a climate of escalating conflict.