The Independent’s live coverage reports a major escalation in the Ukraine–Russia conflict following a large-scale Russian strike on Kyiv and other Ukrainian regions.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the assault involved approximately 600 drones and around 90 missiles, including the deployment of an Oreshnik hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile.

The attack caused widespread destruction across the capital, hitting residential buildings, schools, shopping areas and critical infrastructure in multiple districts.Emergency services reported fires, structural collapses and significant disruption to rescue operations.At least four people were killed and around 100 others were injured nationwide, with Kyiv identified as the primary target of the barrage.The strikes drew strong international condemnation.

Leaders including Emmanuel Macron, Giorgia Meloni, Kaja Kallas and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper described the assault as a reckless escalation and further evidence of Russia’s increasing aggression against civilian areas.Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz also criticised the use of the Oreshnik missile system.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renewed urgent calls for stronger and continuous air defence support from Western allies, stressing the need to maintain missile deliveries without interruption.

The report also highlights wider regional tensions, noting Russia’s claims that it was preparing retaliation following a drone strike in Luhansk, which Ukraine denies carrying out.

Separately, Ukraine reportedly struck an oil pumping station in Russia’s Vladimir region, causing a major fire at a site supplying fuel towards Moscow-area airports.

Additional developments include Finland’s President Alexander Stubb expressing openness to representing Europe in potential Ukraine peace talks, and reports that an RAF aircraft carrying the UK Defence Secretary experienced GPS jamming near the Russian border, attributed to suspected Russian electronic interference.

Overall, the situation reflects a continuing cycle of escalation, with intensifying military activity and growing international concern over the widening scope of the conflict.