Explosions hit Kyiv as reciprocal Ukrainian and Russian strikes escalate

Explosions rocked Kyiv early Wednesday after Ukraine's air force warned of approaching ballistic missiles, marking the latest wave in escalating long-range strikes between Ukrainian and Russian forces. Recent reciprocal attacks have caused at least 15 deaths across several districts in the capital region and southern territories, according to local military authorities. Krasnodar Governor Veniamin Kondratiev condemned Ukrainian strikes in Crimea and southern Russia, characterizing them as deliberate attacks against non-military populations. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russian forces of conducting a "human safari" in Kherson following footage of a remote-controlled drone targeting a civilian. Separately, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed ongoing direct discussions between Washington and Iranian officials regarding Middle East tensions.

Sources: Le Figaro, Le Monde, Le Soir, Libération, RTBF Info.