Kyiv, Ukraine — Russia carried out a large-scale aerial and missile assault on Ukraine between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, killing one person and injuring over two dozen others, Ukrainian authorities reported.
The attacks come in defiance of a recent ultimatum issued by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who warned of severe sanctions unless a peace agreement is reached within 50 days.
The overnight offensive included more than 400 drones, a ballistic missile, and sustained artillery fire targeting multiple regions. Among the hardest-hit areas was Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown of Kryvyi Rih, where a missile strike caused widespread power and water outages, and left at least 15 people injured.
The Ukrainian Air Force confirmed that Russia launched the Iranian-designed Shahed drones and an Iskander ballistic missile from the annexed Crimean Peninsula. The city of Vinnytsia in central Ukraine reported eight injuries due to drone strikes, while three more were wounded in the northeastern city of Kharkiv.
In Kryvyi Rih, a 17-year-old boy sustained life-threatening abdominal injuries. “He was immediately hospitalized and is in critical condition. Doctors are doing all they can,” Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul stated on Telegram. “This is unprecedented—28 Shaheds and a ballistic missile hitting the city simultaneously.”
Assault Follows U.S. Warning
The wave of strikes comes just two days after Trump, speaking during a policy briefing, criticized Russia’s intransigence in ceasefire negotiations and vowed tougher sanctions if no peace deal is achieved within 50 days. Trump also claimed he had secured an agreement with NATO leadership to increase U.S. military aid to Ukraine, including the provision of more advanced air defense systems.
Despite diplomatic pressure, talks between Ukraine and Russia remain stalled. The two sides last held direct negotiations over a month ago, and no new meetings have been scheduled. The Kremlin has expressed openness to further dialogue, though concrete progress remains elusive.
Escalation Amid Stalled Ceasefire Efforts
Russian forces have intensified their summer campaign, combining military advances on the battlefield with escalating aerial bombardments of Ukrainian cities. The attacks have increasingly targeted civilian infrastructure, leading to further displacement and humanitarian concerns.
Analysts warn that Moscow’s continued aggression signals a deliberate challenge to international diplomatic efforts, particularly as the United States attempts to broker a ceasefire.
While Ukraine continues to defend its territory and seek support from Western allies, Wednesday’s bombardment underscores the ongoing volatility of the conflict—and the potential for further escalation if negotiations remain at a standstill.
By Taiwo Olatinwo/ July 16,2025
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