Russian strikes hit multiple Ukrainian cities as defense discussions intensify

A major Russian aerial attack combining ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeted Ukraine overnight, striking Kyiv, Odesa, Chernihiv, and Kryvyi Rih. A strike on a commercial complex in Kryvyi Rih killed at least 15 people and injured more than 130 others, drawing swift criticism from European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed directly to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres to use all diplomatic avenues to end the war.

In response, Ukrainian drones hit a major Lukoil oil refinery inside Russia, as Russian officials indicated negotiations for a prisoner swap remain active. Meanwhile, diplomatic and military efforts expanded as the United Kingdom granted permission for France and Ukraine to manufacture Scalp cruise missiles locally. However, Italy reiterated its decision not to send troops or participate in upcoming joint multinational maneuvers planned for October.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.