At least six people were killed when Russian forces struck Ukrainian targets over the last 24 hours, including a logistics hub linked to McDonald’s, as Moscow denies any intention to extend the war into Europe.

Escalating strikes in eastern Ukraine

Russian artillery and missile attacks on civilian and military infrastructure have intensified in eastern Ukraine, with officials reporting casualties on both sides. The latest series of strikes, which began overnight, targeted a depot used by the fast‑food chain’s supply chain, according to the Ukrainian foreign ministry.

"The attack was a double strike on a logistics facility serving McDonald’s," said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha on Saturday. He added that the strike had caused significant damage to the storage site and disrupted supply lines in the region.

"The attack was a double strike on a logistics facility serving McDonald’s," said Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.

Targeting logistics hubs

The depot, situated near the border of Donetsk and Luhansk, was hit by two separate missile strikes within hours, according to the ministry’s statement. Damage included collapsed storage stacks and fire outbreaks, though no additional casualties were reported beyond the initial six deaths.

The Russian Ministry of Defence has not confirmed the exact nature of the target, but the timing suggests a focus on disrupting Ukraine’s supply chains.

Official responses

President Vladimir Putin, speaking on television, denied that Moscow had any plans to launch attacks on European territory. He reiterated that Russia’s military operation would continue "through to the end," a statement echoed by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in a separate interview with Al Jazeera.

Lavrov said the objectives of the war in Ukraine would be achieved, but did not elaborate on the means by which they would be reached. The comments come amid growing European concern over the possibility of spill‑over.

Context of the conflict

The war, which began with Russia’s full‑scale invasion in February 2022, has seen a steady escalation of combat operations in the eastern regions. Ukraine has responded with counter‑offensives, while Moscow has focused on maintaining pressure through artillery and air strikes.

International sanctions against Russia have tightened, and NATO has increased its military presence in Eastern Europe. The latest attacks underscore the continued volatility of the front lines.

European reaction and future outlook

European governments have condemned the new strikes, calling for restraint and diplomatic solutions. The European Union is reviewing its defence posture in light of the ongoing escalation.

Ukraine’s next major military operation is scheduled for early next month, as the Ukrainian army prepares for a coordinated offensive in the south. Meanwhile, a NATO summit will convene next week to discuss the security implications of the renewed Russian aggression.