Russia launched a large-scale and deadly attack across Ukraine on Monday, deploying drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles against at least 15 regions, according to Ukrainian officials.
The assault was one of the most extensive airstrikes since the conflict began in 2022, involving at least 127 missiles and 109 drones over a span of more than eight hours, as stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Zelenskyy described the strikes as yet another example of Russia’s malicious targeting of vital civilian infrastructure, emphasizing that President Vladimir Putin’s actions are limited only by what the international community permits.
The attacks focused on critical infrastructure, including the energy sector and railroads.
At least seven people were killed and 47 others injured, including four children, according to the Ukrainian State Emergency Service.
Later in the day, a missile strike on civilian infrastructure in Kryvyi Rih led to additional casualties, including one death and four injuries.
Residents in Kyiv sought shelter in subway stations as the city endured hours of drone attacks.
Ukrainian air defense forces managed to shoot down numerous enemy drones aimed at the capital.
President Joe Biden condemned Russia’s actions, reiterating that the U.S. will continue to support Ukraine and bolster its energy grid.
The White House called the attack a typical strategy by Vladimir Putin to cripple Ukraine’s energy infrastructure as colder weather approaches.
Russia’s Defense Ministry confirmed the attack, stating it had used long-range precision weapons to target critical energy infrastructure linked to Ukraine’s military operations.
The strikes resulted in widespread blackouts and disrupted public services across several regions, including Kyiv, Odesa, and Chernihiv.
