Russian strikes target Ukrainian infrastructure as Kyiv strikes Russian refinery

Russian forces conducted extensive overnight missile and drone strikes targeting civilian infrastructure across Ukraine, leaving at least 15 people dead and over 130 injured after hitting a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih, alongside additional casualties in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the escalation, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged United Nations leadership to intervene.

In response, Ukrainian forces launched retaliatory strikes on a Lukoil oil refinery within Russian territory. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom and France authorized local production of Scalp cruise missiles in Ukraine. However, Italian officials confirmed Italy will not send troops or join upcoming multinational military exercises set for October. Separately, Western intelligence reports indicate Moscow is conducting nationwide recruitment exercises to prepare for potential mass military mobilization.

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