Arabic version: الضربات الروسية على أوكرانيا تترك خمسة قتلى والعديد من الجرحى

At least five people have been killed and dozens injured following a major overnight attack by Russia on various cities across Ukraine. Four fatalities occurred in Dnipro, where 16 individuals were reported injured. In Kyiv, one person died and at least 29 others were hurt due to the strikes that targeted the capital in the early hours of Tuesday. Thousands sought shelter as large plumes of smoke rose from the city, with air raid warnings issued throughout most of Ukraine. According to BBC News, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko urged residents to remain in shelters, noting that two high-rise apartment buildings were struck, raising fears that people might be trapped under rubble.

The Russian attacks began after Moscow warned last week of “systematic strikes” in retaliation for a drone attack that killed 21 people in Luhansk, a region held by Russia. Klitschko indicated that ballistic missiles were used in the assault, which was characterized by the sound of drones and numerous explosions throughout Kyiv. Reports of blackouts and fires have emerged, but the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.

Additionally, an industrial facility in Zaporizhzhia was also targeted during the strikes. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had cautioned on Monday about a potential massive Russian strike, urging citizens to heed air raid alerts. He stated that intelligence warnings regarding further attacks were active and that a significant strike was being prepared by Russia.

Last week, Russia indicated its intention to focus on military and decision-making centers in Kyiv, advising foreign nationals to evacuate the city. Meanwhile, the General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces confirmed an attack near Starobilsk on the night of May 21-22 but asserted it was against a Russian military unit.