Russia Unleashes 400 Drones, 40 Missiles Across Ukraine
In one of the most intense aerial assaults since the war began, Russia launched a wave of more than 400 drones and 40 missiles across Ukraine overnight, leaving at least six people dead and over 80 others injured. The massive barrage, which struck several cities including Kyiv, Lviv, and Sumy, came as a direct response to Ukraine’s recent deep-strike offensive known as Operation Spiderweb.
Three emergency responders lost their lives in Kyiv, two civilians were killed in Lutsk, and one death was reported in Chernihiv. The attacks caused extensive damage to civilian infrastructure, residential areas, and emergency facilities. Emergency services and volunteers have been working around the clock to manage the fallout.
Operation Spiderweb and Russian Retaliation
The Kremlin justified the latest attack as a retaliatory measure, accusing Ukraine of targeting its strategic bomber fleet in a recent covert operation. Ukrainian sources have claimed success in damaging Russia’s long-range strike capability, prompting this retaliatory escalation.
Ukraine’s air defense systems reportedly intercepted around 200 drones and 30 missiles, preventing even greater destruction. However, many drones and cruise missiles still managed to hit key targets, including power grids, fuel depots, and apartment complexes. Several regions experienced blackouts and supply chain disruptions.
Growing International Concern
The scale and coordination of Russia’s strike have triggered alarm across the international community. The operation is being viewed not just as a military counter-offensive but as an attempt to reassert aerial dominance amid mounting battlefield setbacks.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack as another attempt to terrorize civilians and undermine Ukraine’s morale. He called for enhanced international support and more advanced defense systems to counter the ongoing threat.
As diplomatic solutions seem increasingly distant and both sides escalate their tactics, the humanitarian toll continues to rise. The world watches with growing unease as the conflict edges deeper into unpredictability, with no clear end in sight.
