Wed Jul 16 09:20:00 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
Overnight, Russia launched a large-scale attack on multiple Ukrainian cities using hundreds of drones and a missile, targeting energy infrastructure. Kharkiv, Kryvyi Rih, and Vinnytsia were heavily targeted, resulting in at least 15 injuries. Ukraine’s Air Force claims to have intercepted most of the drones, but 57 drones and the missile hit 12 targets. President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for strengthened air defenses and a response to Russia’s aggression. The attacks are part of Russia’s intensified summer campaign against Ukrainian cities.
**News Article:**
**Russian Drone and Missile Strikes Target Ukrainian Cities, Injuring Dozens**
**KYIV – July 16, 2025 (The Hindu)** – Russia launched a barrage of drone and missile strikes across Ukraine overnight, targeting critical energy infrastructure and injuring at least 15 people. The coordinated attacks hit cities including Kharkiv, Kryvyi Rih, and Vinnytsia, demonstrating a continued escalation of the conflict.
According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia deployed approximately 400 drones and one ballistic missile. While most drones were intercepted, 57 drones and the missile managed to penetrate defenses, striking 12 designated targets.
“We are doing our best to restore everything in Kryvyi Rih, and power supply will be restored over the course of the day,” President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Telegram, emphasizing the impact on energy infrastructure.
Kharkiv, a frequent target of Russian attacks, sustained at least 17 explosions from a 20-minute drone attack, injuring three. In Kryvyi Rih, a 17-year-old boy was severely injured and is currently fighting for his life. Vinnytsia reported eight wounded.
Zelenskyy reiterated his call for increased air defenses and a robust response to deter further Russian aggression. The attacks have been cited by U.S. President Donald Trump as justification for approving additional weapon shipments to Ukraine, including crucial air defense systems.
Moscow maintains that energy infrastructure constitutes a legitimate target, claiming it supports Ukraine’s war effort. However, the attacks continue to draw international condemnation for their impact on civilian populations.
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