Putin Pounds Ukraine with Largest-Ever Drone, Missile Barrage
Russia on Friday unleashed its most massive aerial attack on Ukraine since the war began, launching over 500 drones and missiles just hours after a phone call between Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump ended without progress.
According to Ukraine’s air force, Moscow fired 539 drones and 11 missiles overnight.
Air defence units shot down 268 drones and two missiles. At least 23 people were injured in the onslaught.
Explosions rocked Kyiv throughout the night as residents rushed to shelters.
AFP journalists in the capital reported hearing the loud buzz of drones and blasts as air defences engaged incoming threats.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the strikes began shortly after news of the US-Russia call emerged.
“Yet again, Russia is showing it has no intention of ending the war and terror,” Zelensky posted. “Without truly large-scale pressure, Russia will not change its dumb, destructive behaviour.”
The barrage comes as peace talks between Russia and Ukraine remain stalled. Ukraine’s foreign minister, Andriy Sybiga, said the scale of the attack reflected “Putin’s complete disregard for the United States and everyone calling for peace.”
In Kyiv, many residents took shelter in underground metro stations as sirens blared through the night.
The assault adds to growing concerns in Ukraine over the future of US military aid, which has been critical in defending against Russian aerial strikes.
The US recently announced a reduction in aid deliveries, prompting EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to urge European countries to increase support.
Trump, who has held five calls with Putin since returning to office in January, admitted this latest conversation failed to yield any diplomatic progress. Unlike his previous optimistic remarks, he voiced growing frustration with the Russian leader.
Meanwhile, Ukraine has intensified drone strikes inside Russian territory. One drone reportedly hit an apartment building in Russia, killing a woman, according to a regional governor.
The war continues to escalate with no clear end in sight.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
