Russian strikes hit Kyiv as long-range attacks escalate across both borders

Russian missile and drone strikes against Kyiv killed at least 17 people and injured dozens more, while guided glide bombs struck residential areas in Zaporizhzhia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that additional air defense interceptors could have saved lives, adding that Moscow transferred anti-aircraft equipment from other regions to erect three defensive rings around its capital and Saint Petersburg.

Simultaneously, Ukrainian drone and missile strikes targeted Russian positions, including Crimea, Belgorod, and the suburbs of Moscow, resulting in casualties. Addressing post-war arrangements, Zelensky affirmed Ukraine would not voluntarily withdraw from the Donbas, relying on future security commitments from Washington. Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump urged caution regarding defense technology transfers to Kyiv, and an Italian military vessel intercepted a Russian shadow fleet tanker off Pantelleria.

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