KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — In a severe escalation of hostilities, Russian forces executed a large-scale drone assault on the southeastern Ukrainian city of Dnipro, resulting in the deaths of three individuals, including a child, and leaving dozens injured, according to officials on Thursday.

This attack marks the latest in a series of Russian offensives that have led to civilian casualties and increased in intensity in recent weeks. These events occur as the United States continues its diplomatic efforts to facilitate a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv.

Serhii Lysak, the head of the Dnipropetrovsk regional administration, reported that thirty individuals, including five children, suffered injuries during the drone strike. Local authorities further indicated that the drones inflicted significant damage to civilian infrastructure, impacting an educational institution, a dormitory, a gymnasium, and several residential buildings. The Emergency Service confirmed that the drone strikes ignited multiple fires throughout the city.

In response to the Dnipro attack, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appealed to international allies for support in enhancing the country's air defense capabilities. He emphasized on Telegram that "Every defense package from partners for Ukraine now, every form of support from the world for our resilience, is literally protecting lives.” Zelenskyy criticized Russia for its persistent aggressions, noting that "Russia uses every day and every night to kill."

Meanwhile, a Ukrainian delegation is actively engaged in diplomatic discussions in Paris. This round of bilateral and multilateral meetings includes representatives from various nations that form a "coalition of the willing," comprising France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Andrii Yermak, head of the Presidential Office, mentioned that this multinational effort aims to provide a long-term security guarantee intended to deter future Russian aggression following a potential ceasefire.

This delegation features Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov. Yermak shared on Telegram that discussions with U.S. representatives are also on the agenda, underscoring that they "are working on important aspects for the security of Ukraine and all of Europe."

In a separate development, Russia's Defense Ministry announced that its air defense systems intercepted 71 Ukrainian drones overnight across six regions, with 49 of those drones reportedly brought down over the Kursk region, which shares a border with Ukraine. This incursion occurred shortly after Ukrainian forces seized a strip of land in the area during a sudden operation in August 2024.

Additionally, the Russian military launched five missiles along with 75 strike drones against Ukraine overnight, prompting a response from the Ukrainian air force. Reports noted that air defense forces managed to destroy 25 of the drones, while another 30 were incapacitated through jamming techniques.

As the conflict continues, the situation in Ukraine remains dire, with ongoing attacks leading to significant civilian casualties and extensive damage to critical infrastructure. The need for international support and effective defense measures has become increasingly urgent as the humanitarian crisis unfolds amidst the violence.

For ongoing coverage of the war in Ukraine, visit the Associated Press hub for comprehensive updates and detailed reports.