At least 18 people have been killed in a heavy Russian attack on several Ukrainian cities, according to Ukrainian officials. The strikes, which occurred overnight, targeted residential areas and critical infrastructure in cities including the capital Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Dnipro.
Details of the Attack
Ukrainian authorities reported that Russian forces launched a series of missile and drone strikes across the country. In Kyiv, explosions were heard in multiple districts, with debris falling on residential buildings. Emergency services rushed to the scenes to extinguish fires and rescue survivors.
In Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city, at least 10 people were killed when a missile hit a multi-story apartment building. Rescue operations continued through the morning as workers searched for survivors under the rubble. The regional governor said that dozens more were injured, with many in critical condition.
Infrastructure Damage
The attacks also targeted energy infrastructure, causing power outages in several regions. Ukrainian energy officials said that repairs are underway but warned that the damage could lead to prolonged blackouts. The strikes come as winter approaches, raising concerns about heating and electricity supplies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, calling them a "brutal act of terrorism." He reiterated Ukraine's need for advanced air defense systems to protect its cities from such strikes. International leaders also voiced condemnation, with the United Nations calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Russia has not officially commented on the attacks, but its military has previously stated that it targets only military infrastructure. However, Ukrainian officials and human rights groups have documented numerous incidents of strikes on civilian areas.
The latest attack marks one of the deadliest in recent weeks, as the war continues to inflict heavy casualties on both sides. Negotiations for a ceasefire remain stalled, with no immediate prospect of de-escalation.
