Ukraine says ‘cynical’ Russian strike on shopping centre killed 15

On Friday, Russian drones targeted a bustling shopping center in Kryvyi Rih, a city near the front line in eastern Ukraine, resulting in the deaths of 15 people and injuries to 130 others, with 23 of those wounded being children. The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, denounced the attack as "cynical" and "despicable" and called for stronger action from international allies.

This incident occurred amidst Russia's escalating bombardment of Ukrainian cities. Another strike in Mykolaiv region claimed four more lives, including three minors. Rescuers worked swiftly to aid the injured on the scene, as smoke billowed from the damaged building. The Ukrainian emergency services confirmed the toll and Zelensky expressed his condemnation on social media, emphasizing the need for Russia to face real accountability.

The UN reported a surge in civilian casualties this year, signaling the highest death toll since the start of the war. Allies are set to convene on Monday, led by French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and the UK's new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, to reaffirm their support for Ukraine, marking the nation's independence day.