Russian strikes hit Ukrainian cities as Moscow signals potential prisoner swap

Russian forces launched extensive nighttime strikes utilizing drones, ballistic, and cruise missiles across Ukrainian regions, including Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. Ukrainian officials reported widespread casualties, including a deadly attack on a Kryvyi Rih shopping center that killed at least 15 people and injured over 130. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas condemned the strike, while President Volodymyr Zelensky called on the United Nations to intervene.

In tandem with a Ukrainian strike on a major Russian Lukoil refinery, Moscow reported ongoing efforts toward a prisoner exchange. Diplomatically, Italy reaffirmed it will not send troops or participate in planned multinational maneuvers in October.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.