Deadly Russian strikes hit Ukrainian cities as European allies adjust defense support

Russian forces launched extensive overnight aerial bombardments across Ukraine, striking Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that at least 13 people were killed and 40 injured in combined drone and missile strikes targeting civilian infrastructure.

The assault follows a separate strike on a Kryvyi Rih shopping center that killed 15 people and wounded over 130, drawing sharp condemnation from EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas, who cited the "depravity of Russia." Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces targeted a major Lukoil refinery inside Russia, while Moscow stated it remains engaged in prisoner exchange negotiations.

On the diplomatic front, the United Kingdom and France authorized Ukraine to locally produce Scalp cruise missiles. However, Italy reiterated its firm opposition to deploying troops or joining planned multinational military exercises.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.