Russia Strikes Kyiv with Ballistic Missiles in Response to Ukrainian Drone Assaults

On June 8, 2025, Russia confirmed that its military forces have entered Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time since the onset of the full-scale invasion in 2022, according to the Russian Defense Ministry. This move marks a significant geographical shift in the ongoing conflict, as Dnipropetrovsk had remained largely unaffected during the long-standing clashes between Ukraine and Kremlin-backed separatists.
Currently, Russia controls about 18.8% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, most of Luhansk, and significant portions of Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson. Reports indicate that Russian troops from the 90th Tank Division are now advancing into Dnipropetrovsk after recently securing over 190 square kilometers in the Sumy region.
Despite escalating Russian attacks, Ukrainian Southern Defense Forces claim their troops are holding the line. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue, with peace talks ongoing, although no ceasefire agreement has been reached. The situation remains fluid, with both sides accusing each other of sabotaging negotiations and engaging in military provocations.