Ukraine hits Russian refinery as overnight strikes inflict heavy casualties

Ukrainian forces targeted a major Lukoil oil refinery inside Russia, while Moscow stated that efforts toward a prisoner swap remain ongoing. Simultaneously, Russian forces executed extensive overnight aerial bombardment across Ukraine using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, the coordinated strikes hit civilian infrastructure in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv, killing at least 13 people and injuring 40.

The assault follows a devastating attack on a Kryvyi Rih shopping center that left 15 dead and over 130 injured, drawing sharp international condemnation. On the diplomatic front, Rome reiterated that Italian forces will not deploy to Ukraine or join upcoming multinational military maneuvers scheduled for October. The statement follows London's decision to permit local production of Scalp cruise missiles in Ukraine, which drew warnings from Kremlin officials.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.