Desk News || At least six people have died after Russia launched a large-scale overnight drone and missile attack targeting several regions across Ukraine. The strikes reportedly hit key infrastructure facilities in major cities, including Kyiv, Odesa, and Lviv, causing widespread damage to energy systems and transportation networks.According to Ukrainian officials, multiple explosions were heard throughout the night as air defense units attempted to intercept incoming drones and missiles. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the attacks heavily affected civilian areas and critical infrastructure, particularly in Kyiv and southern Ukraine.Authorities in Kyiv confirmed casualties and damage to railway operations and electricity facilities. Emergency crews were deployed across affected areas to restore services and assist residents impacted by the strikes. Meanwhile, Russia insisted that its military operation targeted strategic and military-related sites only.In response to the attacks, Ukraine carried out a major drone operation inside Russian territory. Reports indicated that Ukrainian drones struck several regions overnight, including an alleged attack on a missile manufacturing facility in Orenburg. Russian officials claimed their air defense systems intercepted nearly 300 drones across multiple border regions such as Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk.The growing tension near Russia’s border regions has also triggered political developments. Governors from Belgorod and Bryansk reportedly stepped down, while Russian President Vladimir Putin appointed acting replacements to oversee the regions.The escalation also prompted neighboring Poland to heighten security measures. Polish armed forces reportedly deployed fighter jets shortly after the Russian assault began in order to monitor and protect the country’s airspace amid concerns over regional security.Ukrainian intelligence officials warned that Russia could be preparing for additional large-scale missile attacks in the coming days. They believe Moscow may attempt to intensify pressure on Ukraine’s defense infrastructure through further ballistic missile operations.Despite the continued fighting, the Kremlin repeated its conditions for potential peace negotiations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia expects Ukraine to withdraw forces from the Donbas region before any meaningful ceasefire discussions can move forward.At the same time, Moscow signaled interest in broader economic cooperation with the United States if trade and diplomatic relations are separated from the ongoing war in Ukraine. During a separate event in Moscow, President Putin also announced plans to strengthen Russia’s nuclear defense capabilities. He stated that the country is continuing work on advanced missile systems designed to overcome modern defense technologies.