Russia initiated a significant assault on Ukraine early Friday with a combination of drones and ballistic missiles, resulting in the deaths of at least six individuals and injuring many others. This attack followed a recent daring operation by Kyiv against Moscow’s fleet of strategic bombers. The night in Kyiv was filled with the familiar sounds of drones, air raid sirens, and explosions, as missiles targeted the city and its surroundings. Tragically, three firefighters lost their lives in Kyiv, two civilians were killed in Lutsk, and one person was killed in Chernihiv.
According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia deployed over 400 drones and 40 missiles in the assault, making it one of the largest attacks in the ongoing conflict. The strikes injured 80 individuals and impacted nearly all regions of Ukraine. Following the operation by Kyiv on Russia’s strategic assets, Russian President Vladimir Putin indicated the need for a response during a call with US President Donald Trump.
While the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed the strikes were in retaliation for alleged “terrorist acts” by Kyiv, the extent of Russia’s planned response remains uncertain. The attack has raised concerns among Ukrainians, who had anticipated a response but remain steadfast in their support for their country’s armed forces. Despite the destruction caused by the attacks, residents voiced their resilience and determination.
As the sun rose on Friday, the damage from the overnight strikes became visible, with apartment buildings showing the impact of Russia’s bombardment. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s military launched strikes on Russian airfields in response, targeting aircraft used in previous attacks on Ukrainian cities. The conflict continues to escalate, with both sides exchanging accusations of targeting civilians in their military operations.
Emergency crews are working tirelessly amidst the aftermath of destruction, while residents sift through the debris of their damaged apartments. Streets are littered with shards of glass and rubble from residential buildings. Ukraine’s air force reported that Russia’s assault included 407 drones, six ballistic missiles, 38 cruise missiles, and an anti-radar missile. Of the 452 projectiles launched, 406 were intercepted, including 32 cruise missiles and four ballistic missiles. The remaining two ballistic missiles failed to reach their intended targets.
In Kyiv, plumes of fire and smoke billowed into the sky after a Russian drone strike, while Chernihiv and Lutsk also experienced devastating attacks. Local authorities confirmed explosions from drones and missiles in both cities, resulting in casualties. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed to have downed 174 Ukrainian drones and intercepted three guided missiles over the Black Sea.
Tensions escalated further after an attack on the Kerch Bridge and a call between Putin and Trump. Despite Trump’s acknowledgment of Putin’s need to respond to Ukraine’s actions, concerns mount over civilian casualties. Ukrainian lawmakers expressed disappointment in the lack of condemnation from Trump during the call.
As the conflict intensifies, Trump’s stance on the situation remains uncertain, with some likening it to a playground scuffle. Despite international efforts for peace talks, the situation in Ukraine continues to deteriorate.
