- विज्ञापन -
Russia launched its most extensive drone and missile assault on Ukraine overnight on Friday, shortly after a phone conversation between the US and Russian presidents concluded without any significant agreements. Witnesses in Kyiv reported hearing buzzing drones and explosions as Ukrainian air defense systems intercepted the attack.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that there was no progress with Vladimir Putin regarding ending the conflict during their call, while the Kremlin reaffirmed Russia’s intention to continue pursuing its military objectives.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said air alarms had sounded across the country amid reports of the leaders’ conversation. He criticized Russia, asserting it continued its “war and terror” without intent to cease hostilities. Zelensky called for increased pressure on Moscow, particularly from the United States, warning that without significant international effort, Russia would keep engaging in destructive behavior. He also reported 23 civilians wounded in the Russian barrage, which involved 539 drones and 11 missiles, according to Ukrainian air force sources. An official from Ukraine’s air force described the attack as the largest since the invasion began.
Recent weeks have seen a surge in Russian attacks on Ukraine, with an AFP analysis recording a record number of drones and missiles launched by Moscow in June. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga accused Putin of showing blatant disregard for the US and global calls for ending the war. In Kyiv, many residents took shelter in metro stations as the city faced intensified attacks.
Concerns are mounting over the continued influx of Western military aid to Ukraine, which Ukraine relies on heavily for defense. The US announced this week a reduction in some military shipments, prompting EU chief Ursula von der Leyen to urge the European Union to escalate support. Meanwhile, Ukraine has increased its drone strikes inside Russia, including an incident where a Ukrainian drone crashed into an apartment building, killing a woman, according to regional officials.
