In one of the largest assaults in recent weeks, Russia launched a massive missile and drone attack on Ukraine early Monday, targeting critical infrastructure across 15 regions. The coordinated strikes left at least three people dead and several others wounded, intensifying the conflict and raising concerns about the safety of civilians caught in the crossfire.

According to Ukrainian officials, the attacks were aimed at power plants, water supplies, and other vital infrastructure in a bid to cripple the country’s energy resources as winter approaches. Missile and drone strikes were reported in Kyiv, Lviv, Kharkiv, and several other major cities, causing widespread damage and blackouts in many areas.

Russian military officials claimed that the assault involved the use of “high-precision” missiles, including cruise missiles and drones, to hit strategic targets. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed that the attacks had severely damaged key infrastructure, with emergency crews working around the clock to restore power and essential services.

In response to the devastation, Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to the Ukrainian president, called on Western allies to expedite military aid and provide Ukraine with more advanced air defence systems. Russia continues to target civilians and essential services. We need more support to protect our people and infrastructure from these barbaric attacks,” Yermak said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Russia alleges that the strikes were in retaliation for a Ukrainian drone attack on an oil refinery near Moscow over the weekend. Both sides continue to engage in a deadly tit-for-tat escalation that has seen the conflict reach new levels of intensity in recent weeks.

The international community has condemned the attack, with calls for an immediate ceasefire growing louder. However, the situation on the ground remains tense, as Ukraine braces for further strikes amid the ongoing war.

Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage, with casualty numbers expected to rise as rescue operations continue.