Russian strikes hit Ukrainian targets as political pressure mounts in Kyiv

Russian military forces launched extensive missile and drone attacks across multiple Ukrainian regions, including Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, and Kyiv, resulting in significant civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. A strike hitting an ammunition depot near Kyiv sparked severe explosions, prompting President Volodymyr Zelensky to criticize the storage of munitions near residential areas and promise a resolute military response. Meanwhile, Ukrainian forces launched drone counterattacks directed at Moscow, where several were intercepted.

Domestically, political pressure on the administration mounted following anti-corruption raids targeting linked officials. Dismissed former minister Mykhailo Fedorov publicly advocated for national elections, stating that "democracy cannot be hostage to Russia." These political developments coincided with parliament preparing for a vote to confirm Yevhenii Khmara as Ukraine's new defense minister.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica.