Russia air strike on Ukraine: The most intense aerial assault since the start of the war has left 12 people dead and dozens injured. Hundreds of drones and missiles struck cities across the country overnight, devastating infrastructure and civilian homes.
Russia has launched its most intense aerial attack on Ukraine to date, deploying a record number of drones and missiles in a single night.
At least 12 people, including three children, lost their lives and dozens more were injured, according to Ukrainian authorities.
This marks the second massive attack in just two days and follows one of the most destructive bombardments of the capital in recent months.
The strikes took place overnight on Saturday, despite growing international calls for a ceasefire.
Over 30 Cities and Villages Hit
According to the Ukrainian president, the strikes affected more than 30 towns and villages.
“Russia continues to drag this war on and takes lives every day,” he said in a statement Sunday morning.
“The world may take a break on weekends, but the war does not stop. This must not be ignored.”
Ukraine is again urging its allies to increase pressure on Moscow to halt the violence.
“Without decisive pressure on the Russian leadership, this brutality will continue,” the president added, calling for new sanctions.
He also warned that silence from key global actors could be interpreted as a green light for further aggression.
Russia began its full-scale invasion in February 2022 and currently occupies around 20% of Ukraine, including the Crimean Peninsula.
Record-Breaking Use of Drones and Missiles
Saturday night’s attack saw the highest number of aerial weapons used in a single operation so far.
Starting at 20:40 local time (17:40 GMT), Russia launched a wave of 367 drones and missiles of various types.
Ukraine’s air defense forces reported downing 45 cruise missiles and disabling 266 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Strikes were recorded in 22 locations across the country.
Military experts note that Russia has increased the speed of drone production and incorporated improved technology into new models.
Shahed-type drones, for instance, are now equipped with heavier explosive payloads and systems designed to evade detection.
Civilian casualties were confirmed in multiple regions. In one area, three children aged 8, 12, and 17 were killed. Their parents remain hospitalized.
In another region near the capital, four people were killed and 16 others injured, including three children.
Reports also noted extensive damage to residential buildings and infrastructure, including fires and collapsed structures.
In the capital, several injuries were reported along with fires in residential zones and public buildings. Hundreds of residents sought shelter in underground stations as sirens and explosions echoed across the city.
Russia Reports Drone Incidents on Its Territory
Russian authorities reported intercepting over 100 drones aimed at several regions, including areas near the capital and the Crimean Peninsula.
Twelve of the drones were said to be neutralized while approaching the capital. Emergency services were dispatched to assess damage caused by falling debris.
In a region south of the capital, drone wreckage reportedly landed in the courtyard of a residential complex, damaging windows but causing no injuries, according to local officials.
Major Prisoner Swap Amid Ongoing Conflict
Despite the intense fighting, both sides completed a major three-day prisoner exchange.
On Friday, each country released 390 prisoners — both military and civilian.
Another 307 prisoners returned home on Saturday, followed by 303 more on Sunday. In total, 1,000 individuals from each side were released over the weekend.
This exchange followed rare face-to-face discussions between the two countries, held in a neutral location, marking the first such meeting in three years.
Earlier in the week, a two-hour call took place between the leaders of a major Western power and Russia to discuss a potential ceasefire plan.
The Western leader expressed optimism, saying negotiations toward a ceasefire and an end to the war could begin immediately.
However, the Russian side stopped short of agreeing to a formal 30-day ceasefire and only mentioned a willingness to explore the idea of a future peace agreement.