In another deadly escalation of its invasion, Russia launched a powerful overnight barrage of missiles and drones on western Ukraine, killing at least two people and wounding over a dozen more. The strikes targeted Chernivtsi, Lviv, and Lutsk—cities close to the borders of Romania and Poland, signaling an expansion of the conflict’s geographic scope.
According to local authorities, the city of Chernivtsi was hit hardest. Governor Ruslan Zaparaniuk confirmed that a 26-year-old woman and a 43-year-old man lost their lives after a drone and missile hit a residential area. At least 14 others were injured, and several homes and administrative buildings caught fire. The city lies just 40 kilometers from the Romanian border, which has raised concerns about potential spillover into NATO territory.
In Lviv, a cultural hub near Poland, Russian missiles damaged 46 homes, a university building, a kindergarten, and the local courts, according to Mayor Andriy Sadovyi. Fires broke out in various neighborhoods, and six civilians, including a child, sustained injuries. Residents described the attack as the worst they’ve seen in months.
Meanwhile, in Lutsk, damage was reported to local businesses and residential blocks. While fewer injuries were confirmed, authorities said the drone impacts disrupted electricity and communications in some parts of the city.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha condemned the attack, calling it an “act of terror” and urged the global community to tighten sanctions against Russia. He added that Russia’s war machine is producing hundreds of weapons daily, posing a threat not only to Ukraine but to the broader transatlantic region.
Air defense systems reportedly intercepted several drones and missiles, but the volume of the attack overwhelmed some protective measures. Poland’s military also placed its air force on high alert, as missile fragments were detected near the Polish border, according to Polish media.
The U.S., EU, and NATO leaders are expected to discuss this escalation in upcoming security meetings. For Ukraine, the strikes highlight the urgent need for advanced air defense systems and increased international support.