Authorities report that Russia’s intense attacks on various Ukrainian cities have resulted in thousands of casualties and deaths. Moscow has characterized this assault as part of a major military campaign ongoing for several months. So far, 13 fatalities have been confirmed, including nine in Dnipro and four in the capital, Kyiv. Following a Russian airstrike on Monday night, dozens were injured, including several children.
The attacks have targeted residential buildings. Rescue teams are searching for survivors amid the rubble of swiftly collapsing structures where it is believed people remain trapped. Airstrike warnings were issued across most Ukrainian cities just hours before the attacks occurred on Tuesday morning. Last week, Russia warned of a “planned assault” on Ukraine after Kyiv accused pro-Russian forces in eastern Ukraine’s Kharkiv region of launching a deadly attack on a dormitory.
The head of Kyiv’s military administration stated, “Enemy forces are launching ballistic missile strikes.” City mayor Vitali Klitschko urged residents to seek shelter in safe locations. Emergency responders in Russia’s Krasnodar region reported a drone attack on the Ilsky oil refinery, which caused a third fire, though no casualties have been recorded there.
On Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned of the possibility of a major Russian offensive and urged civilians to stay alert to information regarding potential air assaults. “Intelligence on a Russian assault remains consistent. A large-scale attack is possible, and they are preparing for it,” Zelensky said.
