Russia Launches Largest Aerial Assault on Ukraine to Date
In the early hours of June 29, Ukraine endured the most extensive aerial assault of the war, with Russia launching a staggering 537 aerial weapons—comprising of 477 drones and 60 missiles—in a coordinated overnight barrage spanning multiple regions.
Unprecedented Scale of the Strike
Officials have confirmed that this marks the most massive single assault since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022, targeting cities from frontline zones to quieter western regions. The attack extended over six hours, disrupting power, igniting fires, and overwhelming critical infrastructure networks.
Ukrainian Defensive Response
Ukraine’s air defense systems demonstrated formidable resiliency, successfully intercepting the vast majority of the onslaught:
- Approximately 436 drones and 38 missiles were shot down.
- Electronic warfare systems neutralized another 226 threats.
- Ukraine deployed F‑16 fighter jets, securing seven confirmed downings before one aircraft was lost.
Tragic Loss of an F‑16 Pilot
During the defense operation, a Ukrainian F‑16 was critically damaged. The pilot, reportedly Lt. Col. Maksym Ustimenko, managed to steer the compromised aircraft away from populated areas, sacrificing himself and preventing further civilian harm. He is being honored as a national hero.
Civilian Casualties and Damage
Despite the successful interceptions, some projectiles penetrated defenses:
- A missile strike in Kherson resulted in at least one fatality.
- Another drone attack in Kharkiv claimed a civilian life.
- In Cherkasy, at least six people, including a child, suffered injuries.
- Drohobych, far from the frontline, experienced a blaze at an industrial facility, and Lviv saw blackout conditions.
NATO and Regional Reactions
The assault triggered alarm beyond Ukraine’s borders. Poland scrambled fighter jets to safeguard its airspace, and Germany reportedly mobilized Eurofighters. NATO allies are responding urgently to bolster regional air defenses and assist Kyiv amid the intensified threats.
Zelensky’s Call for Reinforcement
President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine will remain resolute in defense, noting Russia’s sustained use of drone and missile barrages—even as diplomatic efforts continue. He publicly appealed for urgent Western assistance, including the deployment of Patriot missile systems, to reinforce Ukraine’s air defense architecture.
