Kyiv and multiple regions across Ukraine were subjected to one of the largest and most destructive aerial assaults since the full-scale invasion began, just hours after a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. The overnight onslaught, primarily involving a record number of drones, inflicted widespread damage, injured dozens of civilians, and underscored the volatile nature of the conflict despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Ukrainian authorities reported that Russia launched an unprecedented swarm of drones and a significant number of missiles, with many targets being Kyiv and its surrounding areas. Residents of the capital endured a harrowing night, with constant buzzing of drones overhead, followed by explosions and intense anti-aircraft fire as Ukrainian air defenses scrambled to intercept the incoming threats. At least 23 people were reported injured in Kyiv, with 14 requiring hospitalization. Fires erupted across multiple districts, damaging residential buildings, businesses, a school, a medical facility, and even railway infrastructure, causing significant disruption and casting a pall of fear over the city.
The timing of this intensified attack, immediately following a conversation between the leaders of the United States and Russia, has drawn sharp reactions. President Trump, speaking after his call with Putin, expressed “disappointment” and stated that he “didn’t make any progress at all” on efforts to end the war in Ukraine, adding that he did not believe Putin was looking to stop the conflict. Kremlin officials, however, maintained that Putin reiterated Russia’s determination to achieve its objectives in Ukraine and address the “root causes” of the conflict, a stance that has remained consistent throughout the war.
This latest escalation comes amidst a period of heightened aerial activity, with both sides frequently employing long-range drones. Ukraine has also reported successfully striking targets deep within Russian territory in recent days, demonstrating its evolving drone capabilities. However, the sheer scale of Russia’s recent barrage suggests a deliberate and significant increase in its aerial assault strategy.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, the US Pentagon recently announced a pause in the transfer of some critical weapons, including air defense missiles, to Ukraine, citing a review of US stockpiles. While US officials have stated this decision was not discussed during the Trump-Putin call, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is reportedly seeking to address this with President Trump, emphasizing the crucial need for continued military aid to counter Russian attacks.
The events of the past 24 hours highlight the deep-seated divisions and lack of a clear path towards a peaceful resolution in the ongoing conflict. As the world watches, the intensified drone warfare underscores the relentless nature of the war and the immense challenges facing diplomatic initiatives aimed at de-escalation.