Russian Missiles, Drones Pound Ukraine in Hourslong Assault, Kill at Least 16

Ukraine came under a renewed and intense wave of Russian aerial attacks by the end of the day (EOD), with officials confirming widespread damage, civilian casualties, and continued pressure on already strained air defence systems.

The latest barrage, described as a new wave of strikes, saw Russia deploy hundreds of drones along with ballistic missiles and cruise missiles targeting multiple regions across the country. The attacks unfolded over several hours from daytime into late night, striking major urban centres including Kyiv, Odesa, Dnipro, and Zaporizhzhia.

Officials said at least 16 people were killed nationwide, with more than 80 injured, though the figures may rise as rescue operations continue into the night. In Kyiv alone, multiple explosions rocked residential districts , killing at least four people, including a child, and injuring dozens. Emergency services reported extensive damage to buildings , shattered infrastructure, and fires across neighbourhoods triggered by falling debris.

The southern port city of Odesa recorded the highest fatalities, with several civilians killed after missiles struck densely populated areas . In the central Dnipro region, casualties were also reported following direct hits on civilian infrastructure , while Zaporizhzhia saw further loss of life amid continued shelling.

Ukraine’s air force stated that a significant number of incoming threats were intercepted , but acknowledged that several missiles and drones evaded defences and struck at least two dozen locations. The scale of the attack once again exposed the limitations of air defence systems against sustained, high-volume assaults.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly condemned the renewed strikes, stressing that the continued targeting of civilian areas underscores the need for stronger international action . He reiterated that Russia should not benefit from any easing of sanctions pressure and called on allies to accelerate delivery of advanced air defence systems .

The attacks follow his recent diplomatic outreach to European partners, including Germany, Norway, and Italy, where new commitments were made to bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities . Kyiv is also in talks with the Netherlands for additional military supplies.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the strikes as deliberate attacks on civilians and reiterated calls for accountability mechanisms , labelling them as war crimes. He urged the international community to intensify pressure on Moscow and ensure sustained support for Ukraine.

According to the United Nations, more than 15,000 civilians have been killed since the conflict began, with repeated large-scale bombardments contributing to the rising toll. The latest wave of attacks highlights a pattern of continued escalation , as Russia continues to combine daily strikes with periodic massive barrages.

As of EOD, authorities across Ukraine remained on high alert, warning of the possibility of further strikes. Emergency response teams continued search efforts through the night amid fears that more victims may still be trapped under rubble.