Russian missile and drone strikes kill at least eight in Ukraine

Russian forces carried out an overnight strike on Ukraine that killed at least eight civilians and wounded more than a dozen others, authorities said on Thursday. According to the Ukrainian air force, the attack involved 74 missiles and 284 drones, targeting multiple locations across the country. The casualties were reported in the capital Kyiv as well as the city of Poltava, where residents suffered significant damage to property and infrastructure.

The incident has intensified Kyiv’s appeal to its Western partners for additional air‑defence support. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly urged allies to supply missile‑intercept systems and other defensive equipment to help protect the country from further aerial assaults. The government cited the recent surge in drone and missile activity as evidence that the current defensive posture is insufficient to counter the scale of the Russian offensive.

As the conflict continues to evolve, the Ukrainian government remains focused on securing international assistance to bolster its air‑defence capabilities. The latest strike underscores the ongoing threat posed by Russian aerial attacks and the urgent need for reinforced protective measures across the country.