Russian military strikes struck several regions of Ukraine overnight and into Saturday, leaving one civilian dead and at least 31 others injured, according to Ukrainian regional authorities. The attacks occurred just one day before an international summit focused on Ukraine, raising concerns about renewed escalation ahead of diplomatic efforts.
The fatality was reported in Ukraine’s southern Kherson region, where artillery fire hit a rural settlement. Local officials said 1 was killed during the shelling. Elsewhere, injuries were reported across multiple parts of the country as missile and drone attacks damaged homes and essential infrastructure.
In the southern port region of Odesa, falling debris from intercepted drones injured three people. Emergency services responded to several impact sites, treating victims for shrapnel wounds and blast-related injuries. In northeastern Ukraine, the city of Kharkiv was also targeted, with two residents wounded after an attack damaged a major gas pipeline, temporarily disrupting supply in parts of the city.
Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv, was placed on high alert early Friday after authorities warned of a large-scale missile assault. Air defense systems were activated across the city, and explosions were heard as defenses intercepted incoming threats. While debris fell in multiple districts, officials reported no confirmed civilian casualties in the capital from that specific wave of strikes.
The Ukrainian military stated that air defense units successfully intercepted 29 of 31 Shahed-type drones launched overnight, highlighting continued reliance on aerial attacks as winter conditions slow ground operations along the front lines.
Officials in eastern Donetsk region also confirmed additional injuries, contributing to the nationwide toll of at least 18 wounded. Many of the strikes targeted civilian areas and critical infrastructure, intensifying humanitarian pressures during the winter months.
The timing of the attacks has drawn attention, as they occurred just hours before a major international summit on Ukraine scheduled to begin on January 25. Analysts note that similar escalations have preceded past diplomatic meetings, signaling attempts to apply military pressure alongside political negotiations.
As the conflict enters its 1,431st day, Ukrainian authorities continue to call for increased international support, warning that civilian populations remain vulnerable despite ongoing air defense improvements.
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