Russia Launches Widespread Airstrikes Across Ukraine, Killing 2 and Injuring 13
Russia unleashed a series of heavy airstrikes across Ukraine early Monday, marking one of the largest aerial assaults in recent months, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The coordinated attacks left at least two people dead and 13 others injured, sending shockwaves through multiple cities.
The Russian military targeted several Ukrainian regions with over 50 missiles and drones, including the capital Kyiv, the Black Sea port city of Odesa, and the northeastern city of Kharkiv. The Ukrainian Air Force said they intercepted 35 drones and 12 cruise missiles, but some still made impact, causing destruction and casualties.
Among the hardest-hit areas was Kharkiv, where Russian strikes damaged civilian infrastructure. Local officials confirmed one fatality and at least 11 injuries. Images from the scene showed firefighters battling blazes and rescuers pulling people from the rubble.
In Kryvyi Rih, President Zelensky’s hometown, another person was killed and at least two others were wounded after a missile slammed into residential areas. Authorities said emergency crews were working through the debris to check for more victims and provide support.
President Zelensky condemned the attacks, calling them “one of the biggest airstrikes in recent times.” In his nightly video address, he emphasized that Ukraine’s air defenses had successfully downed most of the incoming threats but warned that the intensity of the assaults highlights the urgent need for more international support.
“Every attack like this proves how critical strong air defense systems are,” Zelensky said. “Our partners must understand—we need faster deliveries and more support to protect our people.”
Ukraine has been pushing its allies, especially the U.S. and European nations, to provide more advanced missile defense systems. Recent pledges by Germany to send additional Patriot systems and short-range defense equipment were acknowledged by Ukrainian officials, but more aid is still being sought.
This new wave of airstrikes is seen as part of Russia’s ongoing campaign to weaken Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and shake public morale. The strikes coincide with continued fighting along the eastern front, where Russian forces are trying to push further into Ukrainian territory, particularly around Donetsk and Luhansk.
Meanwhile, local officials across affected cities have urged residents to stay alert and follow air raid protocols. Air raid sirens were heard across much of the country overnight, causing fear and disruption to already-stressed communities.
International leaders have condemned the attacks, calling for restraint and the protection of civilians. The United Nations reiterated its appeal for both sides to avoid escalation and focus on diplomatic solutions.
As the war grinds into its third year, the cost to civilians continues to mount. Zelensky and other top Ukrainian officials are expected to push for stronger global support at the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland, hoping to draw attention to the growing humanitarian toll and the urgent need for military aid.