What’s going on
- Russian forces launched drone attacks into the early hours of Dec. 25, according to Ukrainian authorities. Explosions and air-raid alerts were reported in several regions.
- Local officials said civilians were killed. They also reported damage to residential buildings and other civilian sites.
- Ukraine's air defense units were activated. Authorities urged residents to shelter during alerts and warned of more drones in the air.
- Emergency services were sent to affected areas. Crews worked on search-and-rescue, medical aid, and repairs to critical services where possible.
- The attacks came during winter conditions, when power and heating systems are under strain. Ukraine has faced repeated Russian strikes on energy and civilian infrastructure since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
- Both sides continue long-range attacks using drones and missiles. Ukraine has also carried out strikes on military and infrastructure sites in Russian-controlled territory and Russia.
Why it matters
- Holiday strikes add pressure on hospitals, firefighters, and repair crews. Winter weather can slow response times and make power and heating outages more dangerous.
- The attacks also show civilian areas remain at risk far from front-line fighting. That complicates daily life and recovery in cities and towns trying to keep services running.