Russia has increased its offensive against Ukraine, having carried out its biggest drone attack since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. This attack, delivered using the largest number of drones—728—and missiles—13—to an attack on multiple locations across Ukraine, occurred overnight. This military escalation by President Vladimir Putin comes on the heels of several intensified aerial and missile strikes designed to wear down Ukrainian air defenses.
This weekend, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense shared what has to rate as one of the most impressive tactical achievements. They managed to take out 718 of the drones that Russia used in the attack. This major interception underscores the determination of Ukraine’s Air Force as they fight under intense conflict. The attack resulted in over 30 injuries. At least one woman has been hospitalized with chest injuries, authorities said in Brovary, a city near Kyiv.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has been vocal about the need for enhanced military support to bolster its defenses against Russian aggression. His remarks underlined there’s an urgent need to obtain more of these U.S.-made Patriot interceptor missiles in order to effectively repel such aerial assaults.
To further complicate the international picture, U.S. President Donald Trump promised even more military assistance for Ukraine. In his remarks, he criticized Putin’s approach to peace negotiations, stating, “We get a lot of bullsh*t thrown at us by Putin, if you want to know the truth.” Trump has already pledged to send lots more weapons to Ukraine. This decision marks a significant step toward strengthening the United States’ global posture and ensuring the country’s defense capabilities.
“They’re getting hit very hard. We’re going to have to send more weapons,” – Donald Trump.
This latest assault from Russia has created a new wave of urgency and desperation from Ukrainian officials, and their supporters, echoing calls for action. Luckily, accounts have emerged claiming the drone strikes inflicted minimal damage, if any, with no immediate casualties reported. This irony highlights the persistent difficulties both countries continue to experience while fighting on a challenging and polarized battlefield.
Now with an appeal for accountability, Zelensky is again calling on international partners to pressure Russia. He wants them to change their military tactics, to engage in genuine peace negotiations.
“Our partners know how to apply pressure so that Russia will be forced to think about ending the war, not new strikes. Everyone who wants peace must act,” – Volodymyr Zelensky.
