Ukraine faced one of the largest Russian air assaults of the conflict overnight, with Moscow launching 550 aerial targets including drones and ballistic missiles in what officials described as a “deliberately massive and cynical” attack that coincided with reports of diplomatic communications between world leaders.
The massive strike targeted multiple Ukrainian regions, with the capital Kyiv bearing the brunt of the assault that lasted nearly 12 hours, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who provided updates via social media platform X.
The timing of the attack drew particular attention from Ukrainian officials, who noted that air raid alerts began sounding almost simultaneously with media reports about a phone conversation between President Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Attack Details
- Total targets launched: 550
- Shahed drones: At least 330 (Russian-Iranian)
- Missiles: Various types including ballistic
- Targets destroyed: 270 aerial targets shot down
- Drones jammed: 208 via electronic warfare
- Casualties: 23 people wounded
Ukrainian air defenses demonstrated significant capability in countering the assault. Defense of Ukraine reported that forces destroyed 478 aerial targets, including 268 Shahed-type drones that were shot down and 208 that were suppressed through electronic warfare systems.
The attack affected multiple regions including Kyiv, Dnipro, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Chernihiv areas. Despite the scale of the assault, Ukrainian officials reported that all 23 wounded individuals were receiving medical assistance.
The Ukrainian president emphasized the critical role of Western-supplied air defense systems, particularly the Patriot missile system, in protecting civilian populations. He called for continued international support in defending against ballistic missile attacks.
Zelenskyy used the attack to underscore his argument for increased international pressure on Russia, stating that “without truly large-scale pressure, Russia will not change its dumb, destructive behavior.” He specifically called for enhanced sanctions and economic measures targeting Russian revenues and infrastructure.
The assault represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, with Ukrainian officials pointing to the attack as evidence of Russia’s unwillingness to pursue diplomatic solutions. The air raid alert in Kyiv didn’t end until approximately 9 a.m. local time, marking one of the longest sustained attacks on the capital.
Ukrainian forces have increasingly relied on a combination of traditional air defense systems and newer technologies, including interceptor drones, which officials say have proven effective in downing dozens of incoming threats.
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