Three Ukrainian children killed in Russian strikes identified as siblings

Deputy Foreign Minister of Ukraine Mariana Betsa shared pictures of the three siblings on X, writing "Just crying… can’t imagine the pain of the grieved parents."

She added: "Russia killed three siblings today: Stanislav, Roman and Tamara. Roman forever 17. Stanislav forever 8. Tamara forever 12. Deepest condolences to the family. RIP, angels."

The tragic deaths follow a massive Russian drone-and-missile attack that targeted Ukraine for a second consecutive night.

At least 12 people have died across the country and 38 have been injured, Ukrainian authorities said this morning.

Meanwhile, Russian officials have claimed their air defences intercepted 110 Ukrainian drones.

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Sounds of explosions boomed throughout the night in Kyiv and the surrounding area as Ukrainian air defence forces persisted for hours in efforts to shoot down enemy drones and missiles.

Fires broke out in homes and businesses, set off by falling drone debris.

The attacks over the past 48 hours have been among the most intense Russian aerial strikes on Ukraine since the February 2022 full-scale invasion.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the deadly attacks and thanked emergency services.

In a post on X he said: "Today, rescuers have been working in more than 30 Ukrainian cities and villages following Russia’s massive strike. Wherever necessary, work continues – our emergency services are on the ground, providing assistance and supporting people. Thank you."

He said nearly 300 attack drones were launched by Russia.

He added: "Each such terrorist Russian strike is a sufficient reason for new sanctions against Russia. Russia is dragging out this war and continues to kill every day.

"The world may go on a weekend break, but the war continues, regardless of weekends and weekdays. This cannot be ignored. Silence of America, silence of others around the world only encourage Putin."

The attacks took place ahead of the third and final day of a planned prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine.

The swap has amounted to the largest exchange of prisoners in more than three years of war.

In talks held in Istanbul earlier this month - the first time the two sides met face to face for peace talks since Russia's 2022 full-scale invasion - Kyiv and Moscow agreed to swap 1,000 prisoners of war and civilian detainees each.