Russian attacks hit Kyiv as Ukraine demands air defenses and launches counterstrikes

Russian forces launched heavy aerial bombardments across Ukraine, killing at least 17 people in Kyiv and injuring dozens in Zaporizhzhia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged partners to accelerate air defense deliveries, stating interceptors "could have saved the lives" of victims. Zelensky also affirmed that Ukrainian forces would not voluntarily retreat from Donbas, citing post-war security assurances from the United States.

In response, Ukrainian drone strikes targeted several locations in Russia and occupied territories, including Belgorod, Crimea, Gelendzhik, and the Moscow outskirts. Concurrently, former U.S. President Donald Trump urged caution over sharing sensitive missile technology with Kyiv. At sea, the Italian navy intercepted a Russian shadow fleet oil tanker off Pantelleria, while reports emerged in Russia regarding fraudulent marriage schemes targeting military death benefits.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica, La Stampa.