Russia launched a massive overnight aerial assault on Ukraine, firing more than 500 drones and over two dozen missiles, authorities in Kyiv said on Wednesday, according to news agency AP. The strikes came even as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged in diplomatic talks with European leaders to boost military support and revive stalled United States (US)-led peace efforts.

The primary targets of the Russian offensive were civilian infrastructure and energy facilities, Zelenskyy said, warning that the attacks are part of a broader escalation as winter approaches — nearly three years since Russia's full-scale invasion began.

The drone and missile strikes were concentrated in western and central regions of the country and left at least five civilians injured, stated AP, quoting the Ukrainian Air Force.