Russian Airstrikes Hit Multiple Ukrainian Regions, Causing Fatalities and Infrastructure Damage

A new wave of Russian airstrikes struck Ukraine overnight, resulting in at least three deaths and widespread damage, Ukrainian officials reported on Thursday. Two fatalities were confirmed in the eastern Dnipropetrovsk region, while a woman died after being rescued from a burning apartment in Odesa, according to local authorities and emergency services.

President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that attacks targeted 10 regions, affecting multiple cities. Ukraine's military reported that over 340 drones—both explosive and decoy types—and 35 cruise and ballistic missiles were launched, with more than 30 projectiles breaching air defences. One strike hit a residential building in Odesa, igniting a fire on the upper floors. Emergency responders said five people were rescued from the blaze, but at least six others were injured.

In Pavlohrad, eastern Ukraine, regional governor Serhiy Lysak described the situation as a "hellish night and morning" due to repeated explosions from drone and missile attacks. He said it was the largest assault on the city to date, with industrial sites, a fire department, a clinic, a school, and a cultural institution among the reported targets. President Zelensky noted that "important infrastructure" was damaged in the area. Russia's defence ministry stated it had targeted military-industrial enterprises producing missile and drone components, but did not specify locations.

The north-eastern city of Sumy and the nearby town of Shostka also came under attack, with Zelensky reporting that critical infrastructure was hit, resulting in power outages for thousands of families. Local officials said a strike in Shostka caused a fire, though the specific target was not disclosed. Unverified videos circulating online appeared to show significant fires and smoke following the attacks.

President Zelensky reiterated the need to strengthen Ukraine's air defences, urging both increased international support and domestic production of interceptor drones.