The Russia-Ukraine war has entered a dangerous new phase after one of the deadliest Russian attacks on Kyiv in recent months left at least 27 people dead and pushed both sides toward fresh military escalation. Ukraine says Russia launched one of its largest overnight aerial assaults since the war began, firing hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles at targets across the country. The attack heavily damaged residential buildings in Kyiv, killing civilians and forcing tens of thousands of residents, including thousands of children, into underground shelters as air raid sirens echoed across the capital. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the assault and vowed that Russia would face certain retaliation. Kyiv is also seeking US approval to expand domestic production of Patriot missile systems while European allies prepare additional sanctions against Moscow. Russia, meanwhile, claimed the massive barrage was carried out in response to recent Ukrainian drone attacks inside Russian territory. Moscow also reported intercepting hundreds of Ukrainian drones over recent days and accused Kyiv of escalating cross-border attacks. WATCH

Iran has begun elaborate state funeral ceremonies for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with a multi-day farewell planned across Tehran, Qom and Mashhad as the country prepares to bid farewell to one of the most influential figures in its modern history. The funeral proceedings began with an unannounced state ceremony during which Khamenei's coffin was brought back to the site where he was killed. Iranian authorities have announced a five-day programme of public mourning and official ceremonies, with thousands expected to participate in processions across multiple cities. The funeral has drawn unprecedented international attention. According to Iranian officials, representatives from nearly 100 countries, including heads of state, senior ministers and special envoys, are expected to attend the ceremonies. WATCH