Russian drones, missiles strike Ukraine in major attack; 10 dead, dozens wounded

Russia launched a significant assault on Ukrainian cities early Tuesday, deploying drones and missiles that pounded targets including the capital, Kyiv, and Dnipro. The coordinated attacks resulted in at least 10 fatalities and left approximately 100 people wounded, according to authorities.

The strikes occurred after days of escalating warnings from Moscow regarding its intentions for major assaults. This escalation follows a pattern where Russia has frequently targeted Ukraine’s power grid and critical infrastructure throughout the ongoing conflict, which has now surpassed four years. Ukraine, in turn, has intensified its own attacks on Russian oil facilities this year.

Both nations have consistently denied targeting civilians in their respective attacks. However, the latest barrage has inflicted significant casualties and damage. The Kremlin had previously indicated its intent for "systematic strikes" on Kyiv targets in retaliation for a drone attack on a dormitory in Ukraine’s Russian-held Luhansk region, an attack Ukraine denied responsibility for. The current attacks underscore the continued intensity and devastating impact of the conflict on civilian populations.