Ukraine marks Independence Day amid deadly Russian strikes and rising European strain

Ukrainian authorities continue emergency operations following widespread Russian drone and missile strikes targeting critical infrastructure in Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv, which killed at least 13 people and injured dozens in the capital. The casualties follow a devastating strike on a Kryvyi Rih shopping center that left 15 dead and 130 wounded, drawing fierce condemnation from European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas.

Concurrently, Moscow reported targeting a Lukoil refinery and indicated ongoing preparations for a prisoner exchange. Amid Ukraine's Independence Day observances, diplomatic tensions intensified after London permitted local production of Scalp cruise missiles in France and Ukraine, prompting Kremlin threats toward the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, Rome reaffirmed its refusal to join planned October multinational military maneuvers or deploy Italian troops to the region.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.