Russia strikes Ukraine with massive barrage; at least 24 dead

Russia conducted one of its most intensive bombardments of Ukraine in recent weeks, deploying a combination of advanced missiles and drone strikes across multiple targets during darkness hours. The multi-pronged assault inflicted significant casualties and prompted emergency responses across affected regions.

Ukrainian authorities said the attack consisted of 130 drones, 48 cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles, indicating a coordinated strategy targeting both military and civilian infrastructure. Air defense forces engaged the incoming threats throughout the night, though the scale of the barrage made complete interception difficult.

The death toll reached at least 24 people, with rescuers continuing search and recovery operations across struck areas. Officials reported damage to residential buildings, energy infrastructure, and other civilian facilities, compounding the humanitarian impact of the sustained campaign.

The overnight strike represents part of Russia's broader aerial offensive against Ukrainian territory, which has intensified in recent months. Russian forces have increasingly relied on standoff weapons to target sites at considerable distance from frontline positions.