Russian Strikes Kill 25 in Ternopil Amid Widespread Attacks on Ukraine

TERNOPIL, Ukraine — November 20, 2025 — At least 25 people were killed in Ternopil following a series of overnight Russian missile strikes targeting Ukrainian infrastructure and residential areas, officials said Wednesday. The attacks, part of a broader assault across multiple regions, have heightened tensions in Eastern Europe and prompted neighboring Poland to deploy fighter jets to its airspace.

According to Ukrainian authorities, the missile barrage began late Tuesday and continued into the early hours of Wednesday, heavily damaging critical infrastructure in Ternopil, a city in western Ukraine. Emergency responders have been working through the night to search for survivors and provide aid to those injured.

The strikes also affected power grids and communication networks, leaving parts of the city without electricity and disrupting essential services. Local officials reported widespread damage to residential buildings, with many civilians among the casualties.

This wave of attacks is part of an intensified Russian military campaign targeting Ukraine’s civilian and infrastructure sites, officials said. The assault has drawn international condemnation and raised concerns about escalating violence in the region.

Poland’s military confirmed that it scrambled fighter jets in response to unidentified aircraft approaching its airspace amid the missile launches. The jets were deployed as a precautionary measure to monitor and secure the country’s borders, according to Polish defense officials.

The Ukrainian government has called for increased support from its Western allies to bolster its defense capabilities and protect civilians from ongoing attacks. Humanitarian organizations have also warned of a growing crisis as damaged infrastructure hampers relief efforts.

The strikes come amid ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which has persisted since early 2022. The recent escalation marks one of the deadliest attacks on western Ukrainian cities since the conflict began, underscoring the volatile security situation.

International leaders continue to urge restraint and dialogue, but the situation remains tense as both sides maintain their military postures. The impact on civilians and critical infrastructure has raised urgent calls for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further loss of life.

Authorities in Ternopil have set up emergency shelters and are coordinating with national agencies to assist displaced residents. The full extent of the damage is still being assessed as rescue operations continue.

The attacks highlight the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces in defending its territory and protecting its population amid sustained military pressure. The international community remains watchful as developments unfold in the coming days.