Russia launched a large-scale overnight assault on Ukraine, striking multiple cities including Kyiv, Dnipro, and Kharkiv, in what Ukrainian officials described as one of the most intense attacks in recent weeks. At least 22 people were killed and more than 100 others were wounded.

Ukrainian authorities had warned for days that further escalation was likely. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said intelligence indicated another major strike could occur, telling citizens on Tuesday evening that “another large-scale attack may occur tonight.”

According to Ukraine’s air force, Russia fired 73 missiles and 656 drones starting around 6 p.m. local time on Monday. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted 40 missiles and 602 drones, though several projectiles still reached targets. Kyiv was the primary focus of the attack, while drones were also reported over 38 other locations across the country.

Russia’s Ministry of Defense confirmed the operation, saying it conducted a “massive strike” using high-precision, long-range weapons aimed at Ukraine’s defense industry facilities. It claimed that “all designated targets have been hit,” and that the strike objectives were achieved.

Following the attack, Zelenskyy renewed urgent calls for strengthened air defense capabilities, urging European partners to accelerate development of missile defense systems. “Europe needs its own anti-ballistic defense so that this war can finally be brought to an end,” he said, adding that additional U.S.-supplied Patriot systems are “absolutely necessary” for protecting Ukrainian cities from continued missile threats.