Russia and Ukraine exchanged drone attacks overnight, hitting major strategic sites and civilian areas beyond the front line. The strikes caused deaths, injuries, fires and infrastructure damage as both sides expanded aerial attacks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said a Russian drone struck the headquarters of Ukraine’s Security Service, known as the SBU, on Volodymyrska Street in central Kyiv. The attack directly targeted the agency chief’s office and raised concerns over government security.
Five People Injured in Central Kyiv
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko reported that five people suffered injuries during the strike. Meanwhile, heavy black smoke rose near the SBU headquarters and St. Sophia Cathedral, showing the strike’s impact.
The latest major strike followed a series of Russian attacks across Ukraine. In the southern Odesa region, one person died and five others sustained injuries after overnight Russian strikes, regional Governor Oleh Kiper said.
The attacks also damaged civilian infrastructure, including administrative buildings and private and official vehicles. As a result, local authorities faced challenges while assessing damage and supporting affected residents.
Russia Launches 121 Drones, Ukraine Reports
Ukraine’s Air Force said Russia launched 121 drones and one missile during the overnight assault. Ukrainian forces reported suppressing 103 aerial targets across the country, although officials assessed the damage.
At the same time, Ukrainian attacks reportedly reached areas inside Russia, near Sochi. An oil depot caught fire following a Ukrainian drone attack, showing both sides target strategic infrastructure beyond the battlefield.
The expanding strikes underscore the widening reach of the war. Furthermore, repeated attacks on cities and infrastructure raise concerns about civilian safety as Russia and Ukraine intensify their use of drones and missiles.
