Devastating Overnight Strikes Ravage Ukrainian Cities

Russia executed its most lethal attack this year on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, killing 16 people, including a child, in drone and missile strikes. The attacks prompted Ukraine's President to call for stronger international sanctions against Russia. Rescue operations continue as officials warn of increased casualties.

In the most lethal attack since the beginning of the year, Russia struck the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, and several other cities overnight, leaving 16 dead, including a 12-year-old child, and injuring scores, according to officials.

The assault involved drone and missile strikes that ignited fires throughout Kyiv, causing black smoke to engulf the night sky as firefighters struggled to contain the blazes. The aftermath saw morning hours filled with residents and emergency crews diligently clearing debris from severely damaged buildings.

Alongside the casualties in Kyiv, nine lives were claimed in Odesa, and two in Dnipro, where Russian attacks ignited residential buildings. These aggressive actions have led President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to insist that Russia does not merit any reduction in global sanctions, a sentiment echoed by other Ukrainian officials who are urging the international community to act decisively.

(With inputs from agencies.)