Russian strikes hit Ukrainian cities as Kyiv targets Russian oil refinery

Russian forces launched widespread overnight missile and drone strikes across Ukraine, striking civilian infrastructure in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that at least 13 people were killed and 40 injured in the attacks. The escalation followed a Russian strike on a shopping mall in Kryvyi Rih that left 15 dead and over 130 wounded, which EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas said "shows the depravity of Russia".

In response, Ukrainian forces attacked a major Lukoil oil refinery inside Russia. Meanwhile, Moscow stated it is working on a potential prisoner exchange. On the diplomatic and military front, the United Kingdom and France authorized localized production of Scalp cruise missiles in Ukraine. Italy reaffirmed its stance against sending troops, confirming it will not join upcoming multinational military maneuvers planned for October.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.