Putin Accused of Escalating War After Deadly Kyiv Apartment Strike Kills Nine

Kyiv has entered a day of mourning following a massive Russian aerial assault that killed at least nine people in a residential apartment block, with two children among the victims. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that Russia launched over 1,560 drones and utilized ballistic and cruise missiles against population centers since Wednesday, damaging approximately 180 facilities including more than 50 residential buildings. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz condemned the attacks, stating that President Vladimir Putin is betting on escalation rather than negotiation, contradicting recent Russian claims that the war is nearing an end. Merz emphasized that while Kyiv and its partners remain ready for talks aimed at a just peace, Moscow continues to wage war. The strike flattened part of an apartment building in the capital, prompting Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko to declare Friday a day of mourning. Additionally, a UN humanitarian vehicle came under fire in Kherson during the broader campaign. This surge in violence marks one of the largest Russian attacks in recent times, intensifying international criticism of Moscow's military strategy amidst ongoing diplomatic tensions.