Russia’s overnight attack on Ukraine marked one of the most extensive air assaults of the war, with more than 500 drones and missiles launched in a single wave. The timing of the strike was striking it happened while President Vladimir Putin stood in Beijing, alongside Chinese leader Xi Jinping and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, during a military parade. By unleashing such a destructive attack while appearing with his global allies, Putin seemed determined to send a dual message.
Ukrainian skies filled with Shahed drones
Ukraine’s air defense systems reported a relentless night, intercepting 430 Iranian-made Shahed drones, as well as several cruise missiles launched from Russian bombers and ships. The Shahed drones, which Russia has been using in large numbers for months, were sent in overwhelming swarms, forcing Ukrainian anti-aircraft units to spread their firepower thin.
Despite strong defenses, a significant number of projectiles managed to strike critical infrastructure and homes, showing the challenge of facing such massive barrages night after night.
The impact of the strikes was widespread. In Kirovohrad, a direct hit near a railway station injured four workers and disrupted train services for hours. In western Ukraine, the cities of Lviv and Lutsk suffered heavy damage to warehouses and power grids, leaving businesses unable to operate normally.
Kyiv on edge during long air raid alarms
In the capital, Kyiv, air raid sirens lasted for hours as missiles and drones approached. Residents rushed to underground shelters, with many describing the night as one of the most exhausting since the early stages of the war. Military officials in Kyiv emphasized that the attack demonstrated Russia’s continuing attempt to break civilian morale by targeting infrastructure rather than purely military sites.
Yet, despite the psychological toll, Ukrainians showed resilience, returning to work and school the following morning under tense conditions.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the assault as not only “brutal” but also a deliberate attempt to prove Russia’s strength to the world during Putin’s trip abroad. He urged Western allies to accelerate the delivery of advanced air defense systems, stressing that Ukraine cannot sustain its defense without constant resupply.
Global reaction to the overnight attack
World leaders responded with sharp criticism. European Union officials called the attack a reminder of Russia’s disregard for civilian life, while the United States promised to continue supplying Ukraine with weapons and ammunition.
For Ukrainians, the attack highlighted the brutal nature of a war that has dragged on for years. Families endured another night of sleeplessness, shelters grew crowded, and emergency crews worked around the clock to repair damages. Despite fatigue, many citizens expressed determination to resist.
Russia Faces a Deepening Population Collapse Crisis Amid War 
Russia and China join forces against the United States 
Macron Hosts Paris Summit on Postwar Security for Ukraine 
White House approves the sale of 3,350 missiles to Ukraine 
Russia and Iran discuss nuclear program ahead of European talks 
Ukraine: Russia says drone sparks fire at nuclear plant