Russia launched a large-scale overnight missile and drone attack across Ukraine on Tuesday, targeting major cities including Kyiv, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Poltava in what officials describe as one of the biggest assaults in recent weeks.
Ukrainian authorities reported that at least 18 people were killed and more than 100 injured as missiles and drones struck residential areas, critical infrastructure, and other locations across the country. The southeastern city of Dnipro suffered some of the deadliest damage, while Kyiv experienced widespread destruction and power outages.
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia launched 73 missiles and more than 600 drones during the assault. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted many of the incoming weapons, but officials said several missiles penetrated defensive systems and struck civilian areas.
In Kyiv, multiple residential buildings, a kindergarten, a clinic, and commercial properties were damaged. Authorities said approximately 140,000 residents temporarily lost electricity following the attacks.
Russia said the strikes were aimed at military and infrastructure targets and described them as retaliation for previous Ukrainian attacks. The Kremlin claimed the conflict had entered a “new paradigm” and warned of continued operations.
The latest bombardment follows warnings issued by Ukrainian intelligence that Moscow was preparing a major new offensive. International observers fear the escalation could further complicate diplomatic efforts to end the war.
Why This Matters
The attack could have significant implications for:
The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war
European security
Global energy markets
Humanitarian conditions in Ukraine
International diplomatic efforts
Military analysts say the scale of the assault suggests Russia may be intensifying pressure on Ukraine ahead of any future negotiations.
