Ukraine Battles Rising Russian Strikes and Plans Counterattacks
Ukraine, Kyiv, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, Kherson, PoltavaSun Jun 21 2026
Russian attacks on Ukraine have intensified lately, with strikes hitting major cities like Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia. Six people died in one recent barrage, while others were injured in nearby regions. President Zelenskiy urged Ukrainians to stay alert for air raid warnings, hinting at a larger strike expected soon. Past attacks damaged important landmarks, including a historic monastery, showing how far-reaching the assaults have become.
Meanwhile, Ukraine isn’t just defending—it’s pushing back. Ukrainian drones recently targeted oil refineries deep inside Russia, hitting a facility in Siberia twice within days. These strikes aim to weaken fuel supplies supporting Russian military operations. Back home, Russia’s glide bombs rained down on Zaporizhzhia, destroying homes and injuring people. Other attacks near the border and in southern regions left more casualties, with children among those hurt.
Officials describe the damage as severe. Residential buildings, infrastructure, and even cultural sites are repeatedly hit, straining Ukraine’s ability to rebuild. While Russia spreads its attacks across multiple areas, Ukraine’s strategy includes striking back hard to disrupt enemy resources. The back-and-forth highlights a brutal cycle of retaliation and escalation.