Russia launches overnight air strikes on Ukraine as allies consult on defense

Russian forces launched a coordinated overnight assault using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones against several regions, including Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Ukrainian authorities reported multiple casualties, widespread power disruptions, and structural damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that rescue teams worked through the night after an attack aimed to "cause the greatest possible damage to civilian infrastructure."

The strikes followed a raid on a Kryvyi Rih shopping center that left 15 dead. Zelensky urged United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to intervene, while European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the strikes. Meanwhile, Western allies consulted after London and Paris permitted local production of Scalp cruise missiles in Ukraine. Rome reiterated it will not send troops. Moscow reported working on a prisoner exchange amid a Ukrainian strike on a Russian refinery.

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