Russian forces launched one of the largest coordinated attacks on Ukraine this year early Friday, killing eight people and damaging critical energy infrastructure across multiple regions. Ukrainian officials confirmed six fatalities in Kyiv and two in the southern city of Chornomorsk, with at least 50 injured nationwide.
Unprecedented Drone and Missile Barrage
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported 430 drones and 18 missiles were deployed in the assault, describing it as "an attempt to break our energy system and civilian resolve." While Ukrainian air defenses intercepted most projectiles, falling debris ignited fires in residential high-rises, schools, and medical facilities across nine Kyiv districts.
Energy Infrastructure Under Fire
The strikes triggered emergency power cuts in the Kyiv, Odesa, and Donetsk regions. Energy Ministry officials warned of potential prolonged disruptions as repair crews assess damage to transmission networks. In Chornomorsk, a market strike left ten injured, including a child, while a seven-year-old was among those hurt in Kyiv's outskirts.
Cross-Border Escalation Intensifies
The attack follows Ukraine's increased targeting of Russian oil infrastructure, including a reported drone strike that halted exports at Novorossiysk Black Sea port. Moscow's Defense Ministry claimed the strikes were retaliation for "Ukrainian attacks on Russian territory."
Zelenskyy renewed calls for strengthened sanctions, stating: "Only pressure – with sanctions and strength – can force Russia to end this war." The assault damaged diplomatic premises including Azerbaijan's embassy, hit by missile debris.
