Death Toll from Overnight Russian Strikes Across Ukraine Rises to 27; Russia Formally Shunned at Venice Biennale

The death toll from overnight Russian strikes across multiple Ukrainian cities rose to 27, making it one of the deadliest single-night bombardments of 2026. Strikes hit residential areas across several oblasts, with rescue operations ongoing. In parallel, Russia was formally excluded from the Venice Biennale international art exhibition, reflecting growing cultural and diplomatic isolation as the war grinds into its fourth year. The twin developments underscore the continuing humanitarian toll and international repercussions of the conflict ahead of Russia's Victory Day celebrations on May 9.