Russia hits Ukrainian cities as Western allies adjust military support

Russian forces launched extensive overnight drone and missile strikes targeting civilian infrastructure across Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv, as well as a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih, leaving dozens dead and scores wounded. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed to the United Nations to intervene, while EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas remarked that the strikes demonstrate "the depravity of Russia."

In response, Ukrainian units targeted a major Lukoil oil refinery inside Russia. Meanwhile, London and Paris agreed to allow Ukraine to locally produce Scalp cruise missiles. Italy reaffirmed its stance against deploying troops or taking part in joint multinational exercises planned for October. Additionally, Russian officials confirmed ongoing negotiations regarding a potential prisoner exchange.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.