Intensified Hostilities: Russia's Recent Attack on Ukraine and Kyiv's Counterstrikes

Sat Sep 13 2025 15:49:39 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A massive overnight assault by Russia on Ukrainian territory has caused casualties and infrastructural damage, while Ukrainian forces retaliate by targeting oil refineries in Russia.

In a significant escalation of conflict, Russia launched a major overnight attack on Ukraine, resulting in one death and numerous injuries, predominantly in Zaporizhzhia. Ukrainian President Zelensky reported over 500 drones and 45 missiles directed at 14 regions. Concurrently, Ukraine’s military struck Russian oil refineries, marking a reciprocal response as international diplomatic efforts continue. European leaders are meeting to discuss sanctions against Russia amid ongoing tensions.

Russia launched a massive overnight attack on Ukraine's southern and central regions, authorities reported, as Kyiv retaliated by striking Russian oil refineries.

One woman was killed in Zaporizhzhia, and 28 individuals were injured, including three children, according to local officials.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that Moscow deployed more than 500 drones and 45 missiles, targeting 14 regions across the country.

In response to the attack, Russia's defense ministry announced that all intended targets were successfully hit.

This incident occurs amidst ongoing international peace efforts and follows one of the largest aerial assaults in the conflict, which resulted in at least 23 fatalities.

In Dnipropetrovsk, Governor Serhiy Lysak reported widespread attacks, urging residents to seek cover.

The targeted region faced assaults for a second consecutive night as Kyiv acknowledged recent Russian military incursions into the area.

Railway infrastructure was also damaged near Kyiv, although central and southeastern Ukraine endured the brunt of the recent bombardment.

Emergency services were active in Zaporizhzhia, with explosions reported in Dnipro and Pavlohrad.

On the other hand, Ukrainian forces successfully hit Russia's Krasnodar and Syzran oil refineries, previously targeted by airstrikes.

Russian authorities confirmed that the drone strikes damaged a processing unit in Krasnodar but reported no casualties.

Furthermore, Russia asserted that they had intercepted 20 Ukrainian drones during the escalation, claiming they downed 18 over Crimea.

In an ongoing tug-of-war, Zelensky emphasized Russia's blatant disregard for peace talks and reiterated the necessity for international sanctions.

Meanwhile, European foreign ministers are convening in Denmark to discuss the situation and are considering the freezing of approximately €210 billion worth of Russian assets in response to the conflict.

EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas remarked that it is evident Russia is not interested in negotiation despite diplomatic endeavors.

Additionally, France intends to propose new sanctions aimed at undermining Russia's military funding and resources.