Kyiv, Ukraine

Russia has launched one of the largest retaliatory attacks on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities following Ukraine’s successful drone operation that severely damaged Russia’s strategic bomber fleet.

In an intense assault involving over 400 drones and dozens of missiles, Russian forces targeted Kyiv’s residential areas, causing widespread damage to buildings and critical infrastructure, including disruptions to the city’s metro and railway services. At least four people, including three emergency workers, lost their lives, and nearly 50 others were injured in the attacks.

This strike comes after Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb, a strategic drone offensive that destroyed about 20% of Russia’s long-range bomber aircraft, including aging Tu-95 and Tu-22M3 bombers. These bombers are crucial to Russia’s military capabilities but are difficult to replace, leading to a significant blow to Russia’s aerial power.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the Russian attacks, calling on Western allies to increase support and apply more pressure on Russia to end the conflict. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has described the war as “existential” to Russia’s national interests, signaling a deeper escalation in the ongoing war.

The international community continues to express concern over the growing violence, urging renewed diplomatic efforts and increased humanitarian aid to support the people affected by this devastating conflict.