Zelenskyy: Russian drone strikes Chinese vessel PHOTO

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said a Russian drone struck a Chinese-owned vessel during a large-scale overnight assault that targeted multiple regions across Ukraine.

In a statement on Telegram, Zelenskyy said Russia launched 524 drones and 22 missiles, including ballistic and cruise systems, in attacks that lasted more than six hours.

He said strikes hit eight regions of the country, including Dnipro and surrounding areas, where a missile damaged a residential high-rise and caused extensive destruction to civilian infrastructure. Energy facilities and residential buildings were also hit.

Zelenskyy added that one drone impacted a vessel owned by China in Odesa, warning that Russian forces “could not have been unaware” of its identity.

Ukrainian authorities reported dozens of injuries nationwide, including children, while emergency services continued operations where security conditions permitted.

The president said Russia is increasingly relying on ballistic missiles in attacks on civilians and urged stronger air and missile defence systems. He called for Europe to develop its own anti-ballistic capabilities and for Ukraine’s air defences to be reinforced without delay.

Kyiv is expected to continue discussions with international partners this week aimed at strengthening protective systems, he added.

By Aghakazim Guliyev