Russia launches heavy strikes across Ukraine as Kyiv hits Russian refinery

Russian forces launched extensive overnight aerial bombardment across Ukraine using missiles and drones, striking Kyiv, Kryvyi Rih, Odesa, and Chernihiv. The attacks caused widespread blackouts, damaged civilian infrastructure, and left dozens dead, including at least 15 casualties in a shopping center strike in Kryvyi Rih and over a dozen fatalities in the capital region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged UN Secretary-General António Guterres to intervene, while EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the assaults.

In retaliatory actions, Ukrainian drones struck a major Lukoil oil refinery inside Russia. Meanwhile, London and Paris authorized local manufacturing of Scalp cruise missiles in Ukraine. Rome confirmed Italy will abstain from participating in upcoming multinational military drills in October, reiterating its refusal to deploy troops. Additionally, Russian officials reported ongoing efforts toward a potential prisoner swap.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Sole 24 Ore, La Repubblica.