At least four people were killed and more than two dozen others injured after Russian strikes hit multiple locations in Ukraine, the country’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said on Friday, highlighting the continuing human toll of the prolonged conflict.

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated that the latest attacks targeted civilian areas, causing significant damage to residential buildings and public infrastructure. Emergency services were deployed immediately to rescue the injured and clear debris from affected zones.

Civilian areas hit in fresh attacks

According to official statements, Russian missiles and drones struck several Ukrainian regions, resulting in casualties among civilians. More than two dozen people sustained injuries of varying severity and were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.

Local authorities said rescue operations continued for several hours as emergency teams searched for survivors trapped under rubble. Images from the sites showed damaged apartment blocks and shattered streets, underscoring the scale of destruction.

Ukraine condemns strikes

Condemning the attacks, Ukraine’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said the strikes violated international humanitarian law and called for stronger global pressure on Russia.

“These attacks once again show the cost civilians continue to pay,” the ministry said, urging the international community to intensify diplomatic and economic measures to halt further violence.

The ministry also reiterated Ukraine’s demand for enhanced air defence systems to protect cities from missile and drone attacks.

Ongoing conflict and rising toll

The war between Russia and Ukraine has entered its fourth year, with repeated attacks on urban centres leading to mounting civilian casualties and large-scale displacement.

International agencies have repeatedly warned about the deteriorating humanitarian situation, particularly during winter, as damaged infrastructure affects access to electricity, heating and medical care.

Global reactions

Several countries and international organisations expressed concern over the latest violence and reiterated calls for restraint. Human rights groups have urged independent investigations into attacks on civilian areas and accountability for violations of the laws of war.

As hostilities continue, Ukrainian officials said they remain focused on protecting civilians while appealing for sustained international support.