Russia launched a widespread overnight assault on Ukraine, deploying hundreds of drones and a missile strike that damaged energy infrastructure and injured at least 15 people. According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia fired 400 drones and one ballistic missile, focusing on the cities of Kharkiv, Kryvyi Rih, and Vinnytsia, located in different regions of the country. Separately, two civilians were reported dead in a drone strike on Kupiansk, a frontline city.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a message on Telegram that the attacks were mainly aimed at disrupting the energy grid. He assured that restoration efforts were underway, especially in Kryvyi Rih, where electricity would be reinstated during the day. While Ukraine’s air force intercepted the majority of the drones, 12 key locations were still hit by 57 drones and a missile. Russia has intensified such assaults this summer, often combining drone swarms with missile strikes. These escalating attacks prompted U.S. President Donald Trump to authorize additional military aid to Ukraine, including enhanced air defense systems.

President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for stronger defenses, stating that countering Russia’s tactics required a consistent supply of air defense equipment, more interceptor drones, and increased international resolve. Oleksandr Vilkul, head of Kryvyi Rih's military administration, said the city endured a prolonged attack involving 28 drones and a missile, which disrupted power and water services. A 17-year-old boy was critically injured and is currently hospitalized.

In Vinnytsia and nearby areas, eight people were wounded, according to Ukraine’s interior ministry. Meanwhile, Kharkiv experienced at least 17 explosions in a 20-minute drone assault, injuring three people, reported regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov. In Kyiv, Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed that air defenses were activated, but there were no reported casualties or damage.

Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion over three years ago, Russia has killed thousands of Ukrainian civilians through strikes on urban areas. Moscow claims that targeting infrastructure like energy systems is justified because of its role in supporting Ukraine’s military. Ukraine, in turn, conducts long-range strikes into Russia, although with far less frequency.