In a major escalation of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the capital city of Kyiv and the western region of Lviv were subjected to a "massive" Russian air attack on Sunday. This attack comes in the wake of Russian forces seizing the Ukrainian village of Ivanivske.

Authorities in Kyiv reported explosions and smoke rising in the sky following a missile strike. Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, urged residents to seek shelter and stay in protected areas. Lviv, near the Polish border, also came under attack, with approximately 20 missiles and seven Iranian-made drones fired at the region, targeting critical infrastructure facilities, according to Mayor Andriy Sadovy.

Defence systems were activated in Poland as one of the Russian cruise missiles breached Polish airspace overnight. Poland's foreign ministry expressed concern over this violation and demanded an explanation from Moscow. The Polish Defence Minister, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, stated that all air defence and air force systems had been activated in response to the attack on Ukraine.

Meanwhile, the United States Ambassador to Ukraine, Bridget Brink, condemned Russia's actions, highlighting the increased frequency of attacks and accusing Russia of violating international law by launching drones and missiles without regard for civilians.

In addition to the air attacks, both sides have engaged in clashes in other areas. Ukrainian forces announced that they successfully targeted two large Russian landing ships, a communications centre, and other infrastructure in the annexed Crimean peninsula. The extent of the damage inflicted was not specified. Russia, on its part, claimed to have repelled over 10 Ukrainian missiles targeting Sevastopol in Crimea, resulting in casualties.

The conflict has seen territorial gains by Russia, with the recent capture of Adviivka being a significant development. President Vladimir Putin has hailed this victory as a sign that Russian forces are regaining offensive capabilities. Despite this, Kyiv vehemently denies any involvement in the recent attack on a Moscow concert hall, with the United States corroborating Ukraine's position.

As tensions continue to escalate and the conflict intensifies, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. Efforts to find a diplomatic solution remain paramount to prevent further loss of life and the escalation of hostilities.