Russian strikes on Ukraine cause mass blackouts, kill 17 in Zaporizhzhia

Russian forces have significantly escalated missile and drone strikes against Ukrainian cities, particularly Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, resulting in mass civilian casualties and widespread infrastructure damage. These attacks coincide with the US easing diesel sanctions on Russia, which Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has directly linked to the increased aggression. The full extent of damage to Kyiv's energy grid and the long-term humanitarian impact remain uncertain.