Additional Coverage:
Kyiv Faces Largest Drone Attack of the War
Ukraine endured its most intense drone assault since the war began, with Russia launching a reported 741 aerial attack vehicles overnight into Wednesday. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy described the attack as “massive,” revealing that several regions, including Dnipro, Zhytomyr, Kyiv, and Kharkiv, suffered damage.
While Ukrainian forces managed to neutralize the majority of the drones and several missiles launched by Russia, the sheer scale of the attack underscores the escalating tension in the conflict. Zelenskyy linked the assault to ongoing peace efforts, criticizing Russia’s continued rejection of negotiation and calling for stronger sanctions against Moscow, particularly targeting the oil trade.
The attack prompted a brief scramble of Polish and allied aircraft, highlighting the regional implications of the conflict. Russia’s Defense Ministry claimed responsibility, stating the attack targeted military airfields and that all designated targets were hit.
This latest barrage comes amid a surge in cross-border attacks from both sides. Ukraine’s air force reported record numbers of drones and missiles launched by Russia in June, while Moscow also reported downing numerous Ukrainian drones, including several near the capital. The increasing frequency and intensity of these attacks adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing conflict.
Adding to Ukraine’s challenges, the Trump administration recently confirmed it had frozen shipments of certain air defense systems and precision-guided weapons to Ukraine, citing concerns about U.S. stockpiles. President Trump stated he was unaware of who ordered the freeze. Zelenskyy responded by directing Ukrainian defense officials to increase communication with the U.S. to ensure the continuation of military aid, emphasizing its crucial role in protecting Ukrainian lives and defending the country.