Russian Drone, Missile Strikes Kill 13 Across Ukraine Amid New Attack Wave

Russia launched a massive aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying over 600 drones and dozens of missiles targeting cities in western Ukraine previously considered safe, including Kyiv, Lviv, and Chernivtsi. The attacks killed at least 13 civilians and injured dozens, with damage reported to homes, universities, courts, and commercial buildings, while Ukrainian air defenses intercepted nearly half the drones and most missiles. The use of Iranian-made Shahed kamikaze drones featured prominently in this intensified bombing campaign, which aims to terrorize the Ukrainian population and disrupt military logistics. The bombardment included strikes in multiple regions, such as Kharkiv, Dnipropetrovsk, and Sumy, causing additional casualties and infrastructure damage. Poland responded by scrambling fighter jets near its border with Ukraine, reflecting concerns about the escalating conflict. The ongoing Russian offensive coincides with stalled diplomatic efforts and attempts by Russian forces to break through the front lines, increasing pressure on Ukrainian troops.