Among the hardest-hit areas were eastern and central regions, including Zaporizhzhia and Kramatorsk, where fatalities were reported and emergency responders were also caught in the strikes.

Authorities said some victims were rescue workers responding to earlier attacks, highlighting the growing risks on the ground. 

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy strongly condemned the strikes, describing them as “cynicism” following Russia’s announcement of a temporary ceasefire linked to its Victory Day celebrations on May 9.

He argued that the continued bombardments undermine any genuine efforts toward de-escalation. 

Despite repeated calls for a truce, fighting has continued across several regions, with both sides accusing each other of failing to honor ceasefire proposals. The latest escalation underscores the ongoing volatility of the conflict and the heavy toll it continues to take on civilians.