Zelenskyy warns of intensified Russian attacks, urges Ukrainians to seek shelter during air raids

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russia may intensify its missile and drone attacks against Ukraine, urging citizens to immediately seek shelter whenever air raid alerts are issued.

Speaking on the security situation this week, Zelenskyy said Russian President Vladimir Putin is weakening politically, militarily and physically, which could lead Moscow to escalate attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure.

"That is precisely why he may intensify attacks against us, against our people, using missiles and drones. Please use shelters whenever air raid alarms sound. I urge you, please do so," Zelenskyy said.

His comments came after Russia warned on June 18 that Ukraine could face sustained large-scale attacks. The warning followed a Ukrainian drone strike that hit an oil refinery in Moscow overnight, triggering a major fire.

Earlier, Russian forces launched strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, causing significant damage and multiple fires, including in residential areas. Recent attacks resulted in civilian casualties and injuries, while a fire was also reported on the grounds of the historic Kyiv Pechersk Lavra monastery complex.