Russian strikes hit Ukrainian cities as diplomatic tensions escalate over missile production

Rescue operations continue in Ukraine following widespread overnight Russian drone and missile strikes targeting civilian infrastructure in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported 13 deaths and dozens of injuries in the capital region from the coordinated assault.

The barrage follows a strike on a Kryvyi Rih shopping center that killed 15 people and wounded 130, prompting strong condemnation from EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas. Zelensky subsequently urged UN Secretary-General António Guterres to act to end the war.

Diplomatically, the Kremlin threatened the United Kingdom after London authorized local production of Scalp cruise missiles in France and Ukraine. Meanwhile, Rome reaffirmed that Italy will not join planned October multinational military exercises or send troops.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.