Russian strikes hit Ukrainian cities as domestic political tensions rise in Kyiv

Emergency crews across Ukraine continued rescue operations following intense overnight Russian bombardments that struck Kyiv, Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Officials reported extensive damage to residential neighborhoods and power infrastructure alongside dozens of casualties, with fatal strikes reported across multiple regions. Ukrainian forces launched retaliatory drone barrages toward Moscow.

Simultaneously, political friction escalated in Kyiv following anti-corruption searches at the home of a senior aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov publicly urged authorities to organize national elections, stating that democratic processes cannot remain paralyzed by the war. Lawmakers also moved toward confirming Yevhenii Khmara as the country's new defense minister.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, Il Sole 24 Ore, La Repubblica