Russia’s Massive Drone Attack Hits Ukraine in Largest Assault Yet
Russia’s Massive Drone Attack Hits Ukraine in Largest Assault Yet
A sweeping drone and missile raid over Ukraine marks a new phase in the war, with Kyiv under pressure as hundreds of drones strike cities and frontline defenses mobilize to repel the onslaught.
Ukraine faced a massive aerial onslaught as Russia unleashed hundreds of drones and missiles in one of the largest operations in weeks. Across western Ukraine and the capital Kyiv, air defenses scrambled as night turned to dawn with drones filling the skies. The scale of the attack, with hundreds of long-range drones and missiles launched in what Ukraine described as a coordinated strike, underscored the potential start of a renewed spring offensive.
Ukraine's air force reported that the overnight strikes hit multiple cities, including Kyiv, and caused damage to civilian infrastructure and homes. Officials say the assault involved hundreds of drones and several cruise and ballistic missiles, marking a new phase in the fighting and signaling Moscow's willingness to press a broader offensive while weather improves.
Frontline forces along the roughly 1,250-kilometer front line prepared for renewed pressure as Russia attempted to bring in new units and sustain attacks in several strategic areas. Ukraine’s commander-in-chief said the attackers mounted simultaneous attempts to breach defensive lines in multiple sectors, and Ukraine has mobilized air and ground defenses to counter the threat.
Civilian toll rose as residential neighborhoods were hit and power and communications were disrupted in some regions. Ukraine urged residents to stay alert as authorities assessed damage and provided assistance to those affected. Analysts say such large drone campaigns aim to degrade Ukraine’s resilience ahead of talks, while Kyiv vows to defend its territory and press the counteroffensive when possible.
International partners monitored the situation closely and reaffirmed support for Ukraine, stressing the need to curb the spread of drone warfare and to deter further escalation while humanitarian needs are addressed.
