Russia strikes Ukraine aid centre; 18 dead, dozens missing

Russian aerial bombardment has struck a humanitarian aid centre in southern Ukraine, leaving at least 18 people dead and sparking a search and rescue operation for dozens more, according to Kyiv officials.

The attack involved multiple large-payload munitions, with local authorities stating that at least nine 3,000-kilogramme bombs impacted the village where the aid centre is located. The scale of the ordnance used in the strike underscores the intensity of recent Russian air operations against Ukrainian territory.

Emergency responders are continuing efforts to locate the 27 people reported missing in the aftermath of the bombardment. Rescue teams have been deployed to the affected area to search through debris and assist survivors, though the heavy ordnance used in the attack has complicated ongoing recovery operations.

The strike adds to a mounting toll of civilian casualties from Russian air operations across Ukraine. Humanitarian organisations operating in the conflict zone have faced repeated attacks, hampering efforts to deliver food, medical supplies, and other essential aid to affected populations.