Ukraine strikes Russian refinery following deadly Russian air raids

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Russia launched a coordinated, large-scale strike using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones targeting civilian infrastructure across Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv. The attacks left at least 13 people dead and 40 injured. This followed a Russian assault on a Kryvyi Rih shopping center that killed 15 people and wounded over 130, drawing condemnation from EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas, who stated it "shows the depravity of Russia".

In response to the escalation, Ukrainian forces targeted a major Lukoil oil refinery in Russia. Meanwhile, Moscow indicated it is preparing a potential prisoner exchange. On the international front, the United Kingdom and France authorized localized production of Scalp cruise missiles inside Ukraine. Italy reiterated its opposition to deploying personnel, confirming it will not join multinational maneuvers scheduled for October.

Sources: ANSA, Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.