Russia fired eight missiles and launched 87 drones in a large-scale overnight attack on Ukraine, damaging infrastructure in five regions, according to a statement from Ukraine’s air force on Saturday.
The air force reported that Ukrainian air defense units managed to shoot down 33 of the drones, while electronic warfare systems successfully diverted another 36. However, the statement did not include information on whether any of the missiles were intercepted.
Damage Reported Across Five Ukrainian Regions
The drone and missile strikes hit several areas across southern, northeastern, and eastern Ukraine. Authorities have yet to provide detailed accounts of the damage or any casualties.
Ukrainian officials confirmed that infrastructure in the affected regions had been damaged, though assessments are still ongoing. Emergency crews are working to restore essential services, particularly in areas where power outages were reported.
Increased Use of Drones in Recent Months
Russia has intensified its use of drones in the ongoing conflict. Iranian-made Shahed drones, frequently deployed in these attacks, are designed to target infrastructure and civilian areas across Ukraine.
“Russia continues to rely on drone warfare to stretch Ukraine’s air defenses and disrupt daily life,” said Colonel Yuriy Ihnat, spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force. “Our teams are working day and night to intercept and neutralize as many threats as possible.”
Electronic Warfare Plays Growing Role in Defense
Ukraine’s military has been increasingly deploying electronic warfare systems to defend against drone swarms. These systems can jam or redirect drones mid-air, preventing them from reaching their targets.
“The success of electronic warfare in redirecting 36 drones shows progress in our defensive capabilities,” said Serhii Kuzan, a defense analyst based in Kyiv. “However, the scale of attacks continues to challenge our resources.”
International Reactions and Ongoing Support
The United Nations and European Union have condemned Russia’s continued strikes on civilian infrastructure. Meanwhile, the U.S. and NATO allies have reiterated their commitment to supporting Ukraine through military aid and air defense systems.
On Friday, the Pentagon confirmed the delivery of additional Patriot missile systems to Ukraine. These systems are expected to enhance Ukraine’s capacity to intercept incoming missiles.
Ukraine Calls for More Western Air Defense Aid
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has once again urged Western nations to accelerate the delivery of air defense equipment. In a recent address, he emphasized the urgent need for faster support.
“Each missile and drone that reaches our cities costs lives and destroys what we work hard to rebuild,” Zelenskyy said. “We must close our skies to stop Russia’s terror.”
Civilian Impact and Infrastructure Damage
Though official casualty numbers were not released, local officials in affected regions reported damage to homes, schools, and public facilities. In the eastern region of Kharkiv, local authorities confirmed multiple explosions throughout the night, prompting the evacuation of several neighborhoods.
“Windows shattered and power went out. My children woke up screaming,” said Olha M., a resident of Kharkiv. “This is the third time this month our street was hit.”
Global Context: War Continues Into Its Third Year
The Russia-Ukraine war, which began in February 2022, has entered its third year with no signs of de-escalation. Russia continues to target energy infrastructure, transportation hubs, and residential areas, while Ukraine defends with a mix of Western-supplied weapons and homegrown innovations.
Military analysts say the latest attacks show Moscow’s intent to weaken Ukrainian morale and critical infrastructure ahead of the summer months, a period often used for military offensives.
