Ukrainian officials reported that Russia launched a sustained attack on Kyiv and other cities, targeting ports, industrial sites, and retail distribution centers with missiles and drones. Commuters in the capital city witnessed air defense systems engaging drones following an overnight assault that included ballistic missiles and 258 drones. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Russia’s strike encompassed various infrastructures using ballistic and hypersonic missiles.
The Ukrainian military successfully intercepted seven ballistic missiles, showcasing an improved defense capability after receiving a shipment of U.S.-made Patriot interceptors. Despite this, the limited availability of these interceptors has left Ukraine vulnerable to Russia’s aerial assaults. In response, Russia claimed it faced drone attacks, leading to the temporary closure of a logistics complex operated by online retailer Ozon in Ufa.
In a series of attacks, Ukraine targeted facilities of e-commerce giants like Ozon and Wildberries, which are considered essential to Russia’s war efforts. The country also secured support from allies like Britain, which pledged to provide classified technology for Ukraine to produce Storm Shadow cruise missiles. However, Moscow issued a warning that it could retaliate against British military targets in response to Ukrainian strikes using British weapons.
Air-raid sirens blared in Kyiv as attack drones traversed various neighborhoods, resulting in injuries to four individuals. In Kharkiv, one person died and two were injured in an attack on a shopping center. Additionally, distribution centers of major Ukrainian retailer COMFY and a leading toy company were destroyed. Roshen, a prominent chocolate firm founded by former Ukrainian president Petro Poroshenko, also reported the destruction of one of its warehouses.
Russian strikes extended to industrial sites, energy facilities, and infrastructure in several regions, causing delays in train services. Moreover, six Russian drones breached Moldova’s airspace, with one drone discovered within Moldovan territory, prompting President Maia Sandu to condemn the act strongly.