At least seven people have died in Ukraine following a series of drone strikes launched by Russia. Ukrainian officials reported that the attacks targeted multiple regions, including Kharkiv, Sumy, Chernihiv, Odesa, Donetsk, and the capital city, Kyiv.
Kyiv’s mayor, Vitali Klitschko, described the assault as "massive." Reports indicate that three individuals, including a five-year-old child, were killed in the capital, with at least ten others injured. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to various districts to respond to the damage.
In total, Russia launched 147 drones across Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referred to these attacks as a "daily reality" for the people of Ukraine. Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 97 of the drones during this overnight assault.
This wave of attacks occurred despite recent discussions between Ukraine and Russia about a limited ceasefire. While both sides agreed in principle to a pause, they have yet to finalize the terms. Ceasefire talks are currently taking place in Saudi Arabia, aiming to create a framework that would halt long-range strikes on energy facilities and civilian areas.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff expressed hope for the negotiations, suggesting that Russian President Vladimir Putin is interested in peace. Zelenskyy stated that his delegation was engaging constructively in the talks, but emphasized the need for a clear order from Putin to stop the attacks.
In a related development, Russia’s defense ministry reported that it had shot down 59 Ukrainian drones overnight, including many over regions near the border with Ukraine. This ongoing conflict continues to escalate, impacting both military and civilian lives on both sides.