Russia Launches Largest Aerial Attack on Pavlohrad, Ukraine, Causing Multiple Damages and Casualties

Pavlohrad, a key humanitarian hub in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, endured its most severe Russian attack to date on the night of July 18-19, involving a sustained bombardment with ballistic missiles and kamikaze drones. The assault caused significant damage to nine high-rise buildings, a fire station, industrial facilities, an educational institution, private houses, and a five-story residential building, igniting multiple fires across the city. Despite the extensive destruction, no casualties have been reported in Pavlohrad itself, while other regions suffered deaths and injuries in coordinated strikes. This attack is part of a broader escalation in Russia's aerial campaign, which has seen a tenfold increase in missile and drone attacks compared to last year, contributing to a recent spike in civilian casualties nationwide. The strike followed a visit by U.S. Special Envoy Gen Keith Kellogg to Kyiv and coincided with announcements of new Western arms packages, including Patriot missile systems, to aid Ukraine's defense. Ukrainian authorities continue to manage the aftermath, providing materials for repairs and maintaining air raid alerts, as Russian forces intensify efforts to capture territory in eastern Ukraine.