Russia escalates attacks across Ukraine: Cities under siege

In the early hours, Russia initiated a large-scale assault on various Ukrainian cities and towns. The Armed Forces have indicated that cruise missiles and drones could appear over almost every region of Ukraine.

"There is a missile threat to the northern, southern, and eastern regions due to the potential launch of cruise missiles from Tu-95MS aircraft. The cruise missiles are expected to enter Ukrainian airspace around 11:00 PM ET from the northeast," the Ukrainian military warned.

Furthermore, it was reported that multiple groups of drones were advancing towards Kyiv from the southwest and Starokostiantyniv from the northwest.

There have been earlier reports of explosions in both Odessa and Kharkiv.

"Odessa was attacked by the enemy. They launched a guided missile from a tactical aircraft flying over the Black Sea. Our air defense forces successfully intercepted and destroyed the missile," reported Oleh Kiper, the head of the Odessa regional military administration.

Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in Odessa.

In Kharkiv, the shelling resulted in six fatalities. Multi-story residential buildings, dormitories, administrative buildings, a gas station, and vehicles sustained damage.

All emergency services are responding to the areas affected by the missile strikes. The police are gathering evidence of further crimes carried out by the Russian military.

Russian forces also deployed drones towards Kyiv. This marks the second consecutive day of drone attacks, alongside missile strikes, targeting the Zaporizhzhia region. Industrial facilities in the area have suffered damage, as reported by the Ukrinform agency.