Russian Strikes Kill 19, Hit Cities Across Ukraine

A large-scale Russian drone and missile attack has killed at least 19 people and injured more than 100 across several Ukrainian cities, as the war continues with peace efforts stalled.

Explosions rocked the capital Kyiv overnight, with loud blasts heard across the city and thick smoke rising over central areas by dawn. Residential buildings were among the targets, with entire apartment blocks heavily damaged or destroyed.

In Odesa, one of the worst-hit cities, survivors described chaotic scenes as buildings collapsed in the middle of the night. One resident, Tetiana, said she ran for safety as screams filled the building after the impact.

Another resident, Roman, said he lost his son and daughter-in-law in the attack. He described how ceilings collapsed and furniture trapped them inside, recalling the moment in distress as rescue efforts began.

In Kyiv, a 19-year-old survivor said a drone strike brought down the roof of her apartment block, trapping her mother and younger brother. They were later rescued from the rubble.

Ukrainian officials said the capital alone recorded multiple deaths, including children, and dozens of injuries, while emergency teams continued searching through damaged buildings.

President Volodymyr Zelensky, speaking during a visit to Europe, called for a moment of silence for the victims and described the situation as another “very hard night” for Ukraine. He also said the attack showed Russia should face continued global pressure and sanctions.

European Union Council President Antonio Costa condemned the strikes, accusing Moscow of deliberately targeting civilians and calling it a “horrendous attack”.

Ukraine’s air force said Russia launched more than 650 drones and dozens of missiles in the overnight assault. Russia’s military said it carried out strikes on Ukrainian military and energy infrastructure, maintaining its long-standing position that it does not target civilians.

The escalation comes as broader diplomatic efforts to end the war remain stalled, with little progress on negotiations.

Ukrainian officials also reported retaliatory strikes inside Russia, including drone attacks that killed civilians and damaged infrastructure in southern regions. Russian authorities said several Ukrainian drones were intercepted across different areas.