Russia launches widespread strikes on Ukraine as Kyiv retaliates with refinery attack

Russian forces executed widespread overnight drone and missile strikes across several regions in Ukraine, hitting civilian sites in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv, as well as a major shopping centre in Kryvyi Rih. Ukrainian officials reported multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries. Following the strikes, European Union Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas denounced Russia's actions, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged the United Nations to step in.

In response, Ukrainian forces launched a targeted strike on a Lukoil oil refinery inside Russian territory. Concurrently, France and the United Kingdom approved plans for Ukraine to locally manufacture Scalp cruise missiles. Meanwhile, Italian officials reaffirmed that Rome will not participate in planned multinational military drills set for October nor deploy troops. Russian representatives also indicated that negotiations regarding a potential prisoner exchange are currently underway.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.