Russia Launches Largest Air Attack Yet on Ukraine

Russia has intensified its assault on Ukraine, launching the highest number of drones and missiles in a single night since the conflict began. At least 14 people, including three children, were killed, and dozens more were injured in widespread strikes across the country. The attack came just a day after Kyiv endured one of the heaviest assaults of the war, underscoring the escalating nature of the conflict.

Ukraine’s Air Force reported that, starting at 20:40 local time on Saturday, Russia deployed 367 missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In response, Ukrainian forces managed to shoot down 45 cruise missiles and destroy 266 UAVs. Despite these efforts, the strikes affected 22 locations across Ukraine, with significant damage reported in 13 regions. Over 70 people were injured, 80 residential buildings were damaged, and 27 fires were recorded.

President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attacks, stating that “Russia is dragging out this war and continues to kill every day.” He emphasized that the global community must not ignore the ongoing violence, regardless of weekends or weekdays. Zelensky also called for stronger international pressure on Russia to cease its military actions.

The Russian Ministry of Defence claimed that the strikes targeted military airfields, ammunition depots, and electronic warfare stations, affecting 142 areas. However, Ukrainian officials characterized the assault as a “combined, ruthless strike aimed at civilians,” highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attacks.